A Beginner's Guide To Rosacea Symptoms And Treatments

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that affects the face, often causing redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes small, pus-filled spots. While it is not life-threatening, it can have a significant impact on confidence, comfort and quality of life. In this guide, we will explore what rosacea is, how common it is in the UK, possible causes, symptoms and treatment options. We will also look at ways to manage the condition and the support available to those living with it.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about Rosacea symptoms and treatments:

• Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that mainly affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes bumps or pimples.

• Around 1 in 20 people in the UK are affected, with middle-aged individuals more likely to experience it.

• Common triggers include spicy food, alcohol, hot drinks, sun exposure and stress.

• While there is no cure, rosacea can be managed with lifestyle changes, medical treatments and good skincare habits.

• Support is available through charities, online communities and healthcare professionals to help manage symptoms and emotional well-being.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face. It often causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes small bumps or pus-filled spots. Some people also experience a burning or stinging sensation, dryness, or skin thickening, particularly on the nose.

Rosacea can also affect the eyes, leading to irritation, dryness and sensitivity to light. It is not contagious, but it is a chronic condition that can get worse over time if left untreated.

This video, created by Patient, provides an overview of rosacea.

How common is rosacea in the UK?

Rosacea affects about 1 in 20 people in the UK, most often in middle age. Many cases are mild and may go unnoticed for years. When symptoms are more severe, they can be distressing, especially as the condition often affects the most visible areas of the face.

What can cause rosacea?

Rosacea does not have a single cause, but a combination of lifestyle, environmental and biological factors can trigger or worsen symptoms. Below are some of the most common factors that can trigger rosacea:

Lifestyle factors

• Eating spicy food

• Drinking hot drinks

• Drinking alcohol

• Experiencing high stress levels

• Doing strenuous exercise

Environmental factors

• Spending extended time in the sun

• Being exposed to extreme temperatures

• Wind exposure

• Using certain skincare products

• Hormonal changes

• Exposure to certain microbes

• Taking medication that affects blood vessel dilation [1]

Biological factors

• Genetic predisposition

• Having an overactive immune system

What are the symptoms of rosacea?

Rosacea can cause a range of symptoms that affect both the skin and the eyes [2]. Below are some of the most common symptoms and how they affect different parts of the body:

Symptoms that affect the skin

• Dry, scaly skin

• Persistent redness and flushing

• Visible blood vessels on the face

• Tender skin that burns or stings

• Thicker skin on the nose (rhinophyma)

• Small pus-filled spots (pustules) and red bumps (papules)

Symptoms that affect the eyes

• Inflammation, dryness and irritation

• Sensitivity to light

How can you treat and manage it?

Although there is no cure for rosacea, ongoing management can significantly improve quality of life [3]. Here are some tips you can follow to help avoid or manage rosacea. 

On-going management tips

• Avoid known triggers

• Choose gentle, non-irritating skincare products

• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

• Make healthier dietary choices and limit trigger foods

• Cover your face with a scarf or balaclava in cold, windy weather

Medical treatments can include topical creams, oral antibiotics and, in some cases, laser therapy to reduce visible blood vessels. Your GP or dermatologist can recommend the most suitable approach for your specific symptoms. At UK Meds, we provide the following rosacea treatments, available after a consultation is approved by an independent prescriber:

• Finacea Gel

• Rozex Gel

• Metrogel

• Mirvaso Gel

• Soolantra Cream

What support is available to Rosacea patients?

Living with rosacea can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Support can come from a range of sources [4].

• Medical support: Your GP or dermatologist can provide a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

• Charities: Organisations such as Changing Faces offer advice, emotional support and information to help with the psychological impact of visible skin conditions.

• Online communities: Support groups and forums allow people to share experiences, coping strategies and treatment tips.

• Lifestyle guidance: Many charities and NHS resources provide information on trigger management, skincare routines and sun protection.

Final Thoughts

Rosacea is a common but often misunderstood condition that can affect self-esteem and comfort. While there is no cure, a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments and emotional support can help you manage symptoms effectively. Understanding your triggers, practising gentle skincare and seeking professional advice are key steps towards controlling flare-ups and improving quality of life.

Sources

[1] Overview: Rosacea - NLM
[2] Rosacea - NIH

[3] Rosacea - BCD Education
[4] Rosacea - Changing Faces