Rosacea
Chronic facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes bumps. Common triggers: heat, alcohol, spicy food, stress.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal face
Even skin tone
Rosacea
Central face redness, vessels
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the central face - cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It affects an estimated 16 million Americans and is most common in fair-skinned adults between 30 and 60.
Rosacea has four subtypes. Erythematotelangiectatic (ETR): persistent redness and visible blood vessels. Papulopustular: redness with acne-like bumps and pustules (often confused with acne). Phymatous: skin thickening, especially of the nose (rhinophyma). Ocular: eye involvement with dryness, irritation, and redness.
The hallmark is persistent central facial redness that may worsen with triggers: sun exposure, heat, alcohol, spicy foods, stress, hot beverages, wind, and certain skincare products. Over time, the redness can become permanent and blood vessels become visible.
Rosacea is not curable but is very manageable. Treatments include topical agents (metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin), oral antibiotics (doxycycline at anti-inflammatory doses), laser therapy for visible blood vessels, and trigger avoidance. A gentle skincare routine with mineral sunscreen is essential.
Quick self-check
Does this look like rosacea? Answer 2 questions.
Is there persistent redness on the central face (cheeks, nose, chin)?
Does it worsen with heat, alcohol, spicy food, or stress?
Risk factors
- Fair skin, especially Northern European ancestry
- Age 30-60
- Female sex (though men develop more severe forms)
- Family history of rosacea
- History of frequent blushing or flushing
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠Persistent facial redness that does not go away
- ⚠Acne-like bumps on the face that do not respond to acne treatment
- ⚠Visible blood vessels on the cheeks or nose
- ⚠Eye irritation, dryness, or redness along with facial symptoms
Often confused with
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Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Is rosacea the same as acne?
No. While papulopustular rosacea can look like acne, they are different conditions. Rosacea involves persistent background redness, visible blood vessels, and lacks blackheads and whiteheads. Treatment approaches differ, and some acne treatments can worsen rosacea.
Can rosacea cause nose enlargement?
In some cases, yes. Phymatous rosacea causes thickening of the skin, most commonly on the nose (rhinophyma). This is more common in men and develops gradually over years. Early treatment can prevent progression.
Related conditions
Acne Vulgaris
The most common skin condition worldwide - affects 85% of teenagers. Caused by clogged pores, bacteria, hormones, and inflammation.
Eczema
Red, itchy, inflamed skin - the most common chronic skin condition in children. Part of the atopic triad with asthma and hay fever.
Perioral Dermatitis
Red, bumpy rash around the mouth and nose - often triggered by topical steroids. Common in women aged 20-45.