Great expectations: the truth about cosmetic dermatology

Procedure: Rosacea Light Therapy

What it is: IPL treatment (which uses broad-spectrum light calibrated differently from its use for hair removal) shrinks the tiny blood vessels in the face that cause the flushing dreaded by rosacea sufferers.

The cost: On average, $300–600 per session. It can take up to five sessions, but two will often suffice.

Editor's take: "I've had patches of redness around my increasingly W. C. Fields–esque nose and on my cheeks since I was a teenager. After only one IPL session, I saw a huge difference; after three, my rosacea was completely gone. Seriously life-changing."

Insider intel: "You'll wear goggles to protect your eyes, but it's still pretty bright. Dark spots such as freckles might darken briefly, then peel off a few days after treatment. As a bonus, IPL can also tighten skin and boost collagen."

Faking it: Multitasking BB creams, such as Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector even out skin tone and soothe inflammation.

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