Understanding Rosacea & Facial Redness
Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that most often affects the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. It commonly presents as persistent redness, flushing, visible blood vessels and, in some cases, acne-like bumps or pustules. Some people may also experience burning, stinging or increased skin sensitivity. Rosacea can also affect the eyes, causing dryness, irritation or redness in some individuals.
Although the exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a combination of genetics, an overactive immune response, vascular changes and environmental triggers. While rosacea cannot currently be cured, early assessment and appropriate management can help reduce flare-ups, improve skin health and minimise long-term skin changes.
How our Dermal Clinician's Support You
Your dermal clinician works alongside you to support healthier, calmer skin through evidence-based care tailored to your individual presentation.
Throughout your treatment journey, your dermal clinician may:
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Conduct a comprehensive skin assessment and identify potential rosacea triggers
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Develop a personalised management plan tailored to your skin and lifestyle
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Recommend professional skincare to help strengthen and support the skin barrier
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Provide appropriate in-clinic treatments where clinically indicated
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Monitor your progress and adjust your management plan as your skin improves
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Educate you on trigger management and long-term skin health strategies
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Collaborate with DermAssist and Consultant Dermatologist Dr Phil Tong when specialist assessment and support is clinically appropriate
Common Contributors
Rosacea can be influenced by a combination of internal and external factors, with triggers varying from person to person.
Common contributors may include:
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Genetics and family history
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Increased skin sensitivity and inflammation
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Environmental factors such as heat, sunlight and wind
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Hot drinks, spicy foods and alcohol
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Emotional stress
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UV exposure
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Certain skincare products or cosmetics
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Demodex mites and changes to the skin microbiome (in some individuals)
Can rosacea be cured?
Rosacea is considered a chronic inflammatory skin condition. While there is currently no cure, many people successfully manage their symptoms through appropriate skincare, trigger management and professional treatment.
What causes rosacea flare-ups?
Triggers vary between individuals but may include sunlight, heat, spicy foods, alcohol, emotional stress, exercise and certain skincare products. Identifying your personal triggers is an important part of long-term management.
How is rosacea different from acne?
Although rosacea can sometimes resemble acne, it does not typically produce blackheads or whiteheads (comedones). Persistent redness, flushing and visible blood vessels are common features of rosacea.
Can laser treatments help rosacea?
For suitable candidates, vascular laser or IPL treatments may help reduce persistent redness and visible blood vessels. Your clinician will determine whether these treatments are appropriate based on your individual presentation.
