What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects the face. There are different types, each with its own symptoms.

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea — flushing, redness and visible blood vessels on your nose, cheeks or chin.
• Papulopustular rosacea — red bumps and pimples on your face that look like acne.
• Phymatous rosacea — thick and dimpled skin like 'orange peel', mostly on the nose.
• Ocular rosacea — affects the eyes.

Rosacea is more common in fair-skinned people aged between 30 and 50 years old. It isn't contagious (you can't catch it from another person). There's no cure but there are treatments available to help control it.

Rosacea isn't the same as acne but can look similar. Rosacea can make you feel embarrassed, particularly if it is left untreated.

What are the symptoms of rosacea?

Symptoms of rosacea depend on the type. The cheeks, chin and nose are most often affected. Symptoms may include:

• flushing or redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may not go away
• small, visible blood vessels on the face
• burning or stinging sensation on the skin
• red bumps and pus-filled pimples that don't have blackheads or whiteheads and are usually not painful
• thick, bumpy skin, mostly on the nose but it can also affect the ears, forehead and chin
• dry, irritated eyes with red, swollen eyelids (called blepharitis) — vision may become blurry

What causes rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is not known. It is likely that several factors are involved, including:

• genetics
• environmental factors
• a reaction to the Demodex mite — a microscopic mite that lives on the skin (also known as the 'eyelash mite')

Many people with rosacea find that certain factors trigger their symptoms. This may include:

You may want to try keeping a diary to help find out what things trigger your symptoms. This will help you know what to try to avoid.

When should I see my doctor?

If you think you have signs of rosacea, you should see your doctor.

You should see an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) if rosacea is affecting your eyes or vision.

How is rosacea diagnosed?

Your doctor will look at your medical history and examine your face for signs of rosacea.

How is rosacea treated?

There's no cure for rosacea. Treatments can help manage your symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Your doctor or dermatologist (skin specialist) may recommend different treatments based on your type of rosacea.

Self-care

You can take simple steps to help control your symptoms, such as:

• avoid your triggers
• use non-irritating, oil-free (non-comedogenic) skincare products
• avoid corticosteroid creams or ointments on your face as they can make your rosacea worse
• protect your skin — wear sunscreen and a hat when outside
• keep your face cool to reduce flushing

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe topical (on your skin) or oral (tablet) medicines to help with symptoms.

• Creams or gel — can temporarily reduce redness (for example, before a big event) or can help with inflammation and bumps on the skin.
• Oral antibiotics — can reduce inflammation and bumps on the skin.

Laser treatment may be suggested to treat visible blood vessels or permanent redness. You may need multiple treatments. Over time, rosacea may return and you may need more laser treatments.

Complications of rosacea

Rosacea can cause serious skin and eye complications.

Rhinophyma is a condition where the skin on the nose thickens. Your nose may develop nodules (bumps) and become larger and misshapen. Thickening of the skin on your nose may lead to skin cancer. It is more common in males than females. Skin changes can also happen in other parts of the face, including:

• ears
• forehead
• chin

Rhinophyma can be difficult to treat and you may need medicine, laser treatment or surgery.

Morbihan's disease is a rare complication leading to ongoing firm swelling of the central and upper parts of the face.

Untreated eye rosacea can damage your vision. If rosacea affects your eyes, see an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Can rosacea be prevented?

As the exact cause of rosacea isn't known, it can't be prevented.

Resources and support

• For more information and advice on rosacea, you can visit The Australasian College of Dermatologists.
• DermNet offers information about rosacea.
• Skin Health Institute offers information about patients support groups.
• Dermatology Australasia offers information about practical and emotional support for people with skin, hair and nail conditions, their carers and families.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.