Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, bumps, and sometimes, swelling. It typically begins with episodes of flushing, where the skin becomes red, often after triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, sunlight, or stress. Over time, the redness can become more persistent and may be accompanied by pimples, bumps, or visible blood vessels, particularly on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.

• Facial redness: persistent redness in the central part of the face, such as the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. This redness may come and go or become more persistent over time.
• Visible blood vessels: small, visible blood vessels on the face, particularly on the nose and cheeks. These blood vessels may appear as thin, red lines.
• Flushing: episodes of sudden redness or flushing of the skin, often triggered by certain foods, alcohol, hot beverages, spicy foods, sunlight, stress, or temperature changes.
• Papules and pustules: small, red bumps (papules) or pus-filled bumps (pustules) resembling acne. These may be tender or painful and can appear similar to acne but without blackheads.
• Thickened skin: in some cases, rosacea can lead to thickening of the skin, particularly on the nose, resulting in a bulbous or enlarged appearance.
• Burning or stinging sensations: sensations of burning, stinging, or tightness in the affected areas of the face.

The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but it likely involves a combination of genetic, environmental, vascular, inflammatory, and microbial factors. Several factors are known to trigger or exacerbate rosacea symptoms, including:

• Genetics: there is evidence to suggest that rosacea may have a genetic component, as it often runs in families.
• Abnormalities in blood vessels: dysfunction in the blood vessels of the face may contribute to the redness and flushing associated with rosacea.
• Immune system response: abnormal immune system responses, leading to inflammation in the skin, may play a role in rosacea development.
• Demodex mites: these microscopic mites that naturally inhabit human skin are found in higher numbers in individuals with rosacea. While their exact role in rosacea is still unclear, they may contribute to inflammation and irritation.
• Triggers: various factors can trigger or exacerbate rosacea symptoms, including:
• Sun exposure
  – Hot or cold weather
  – Spicy foods
  – Alcohol consumption
  – Hot beverages
  – Emotional stress
  – Certain skincare products
  – Physical exertion
  – Medications that dilate blood vessels
• Dysfunction of the skin barrier: impairment in the skin’s natural protective barrier may make individuals more susceptible to environmental triggers and inflammation.

While rosacea cannot be entirely prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of flare-ups and manage symptoms effectively:

• Identify and avoid triggers: pay attention to factors that trigger rosacea symptoms and try to avoid them as much as possible. Common triggers include sun exposure, hot or cold weather, spicy foods, alcohol consumption, hot beverages, emotional stress, certain skincare products, and medications that dilate blood vessels.
• Protect your skin from the sun: sun exposure is a common trigger for rosacea flare-ups. Protect your skin by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF daily, seeking shade, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and using protective clothing when outdoors.
• Choose gentle skincare products: use mild, non-irritating skincare products that are suitable for sensitive skin. Avoid products containing harsh ingredients such as alcohol, fragrances, and abrasive exfoliants, which can exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
• Keep your skin moisturized: use a gentle moisturizer regularly to help maintain the skin barrier and prevent dryness, which can worsen rosacea symptoms.
• Manage stress: stress can trigger or exacerbate rosacea symptoms in some individuals. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or other relaxation techniques to help manage stress levels.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking can contribute to overall skin health and may help reduce the severity of rosacea symptoms.
• Consult with a doctor: if you suspect you have rosacea or are experiencing persistent skin redness or other symptoms, our Partner Doctors can determine can accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively and prevent potential complications.