Rosacea

Created: 09.01.2025

Updated 09.01.2025

Approved by: Consultant Dermatologist, Dr James Denny

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. It typically develops in adults, most commonly between the ages of 30 and 50, and is more prevalent in individuals with fair skin. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. Triggers such as sun exposure, stress, alcohol, spicy foods, and extreme temperatures can exacerbate symptoms. Rosacea is not contagious, and while it cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle modifications, skincare, and medical treatments.

What are the symptoms?

Rosacea is characterised by facial redness and visible blood vessels, typically appearing on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Common symptoms include persistent flushing, a sensation of warmth or burning on the skin, and small red or pus-filled bumps that may resemble acne. The skin may feel dry, swollen, or sensitive to touch. In some cases, rosacea can cause eye irritation, leading to redness, dryness, or a gritty feeling, a condition known as ocular rosacea. Over time, untreated rosacea can lead to thickened skin, particularly around the nose (rhinophyma). Symptoms often worsen with triggers such as sunlight, hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, or stress.

What are the treatments?

Treatment for rosacea focuses on managing symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and improving the skin’s appearance. A combination of medical therapies, skincare, and lifestyle changes is often necessary. Topical medications, such as metronidazole or azelaic acid, are commonly used to reduce redness and inflammation, while brimonidine or oxymetazoline can provide temporary relief by constricting blood vessels. For more persistent symptoms, oral antibiotics like doxycycline may help control inflammation and bumps, and isotretinoin may be prescribed in severe cases.

Laser and light therapies, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser treatment, are effective for targeting visible blood vessels and reducing redness. Lifestyle modifications are also essential, including avoiding known triggers like sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and gentle skincare products is crucial to protect and soothe the skin.

Specific symptoms may require additional treatments. For rhinophyma, characterized by thickened skin on the nose, laser or surgical procedures can remove excess tissue. Ocular rosacea, which affects the eyes, may be managed with eye drops, oral antibiotics, or proper eyelid hygiene. A dermatologist can help create a tailored treatment plan to suit individual needs and improve the quality of life for those with rosacea.

What is the prognosis?

There is no cure for rosacea, but the inflammation in the skin can be treated as described above. A Dermatologist can provide medical advice, treatment plans, prescriptions, and further referrals if needed, either in the clinic or through a video consultation or via uploading a photo.