17/02/2026
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects the central face (cheeks, nose, chin, forehead). It tends to flare and settle over time and is more common in adults with fair to medium skin tones, though it can affect all skin types.
Common signs & symptoms
• Persistent facial redness (flushing or blushing easily)
• Visible capillaries (thread veins)
• Papules and pustules (rosacea acne – not typical acne)
• Burning, stinging, or sensitive skin
• Dry, rough skin texture
• Eye involvement (gritty, dry, red eyes – ocular rosacea)
• In advanced cases: thickened skin, especially around the nose (rhinophyma)
Common triggers
Triggers vary person to person, but frequent ones include:
• Heat, sun exposure, hot showers
• Alcohol (especially red wine)
• Spicy foods
• Stress or strong emotions
• Harsh skincare products
• Wind, cold weather
• Exercise without cooling measures
Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers is key.
Types of rosacea
1. Erythematotelangiectatic – redness & broken capillaries
2. Papulopustular – redness with acne-like breakouts
3. Phymatous – skin thickening (often nose)
4. Ocular – eye symptoms
Many people have overlapping types.
Treatment options
Rosacea is manageable but not curable. Treatment is tailored to severity:
Medical
• Topical prescriptions (e.g. anti-inflammatory creams)
• Oral medications for flares (in moderate–severe cases)
In-clinic
• Vascular laser or IPL for redness and capillaries
• Gentle skin barrier repair treatments
• Avoid aggressive peels or heat-based treatments during active flares
Skincare basics
• Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
• Barrier-repair moisturiser
• Daily mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Avoid scrubs, acids, and strong actives unless advised
What to avoid
• Over-exfoliation
• Alcohol-based products
• Strong retinoids during flares
• Heat-heavy treatments when rosacea is active
