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Rosacea

8-minute read

Key facts

  • Rosacea is a common skin condition that may affect your cheeks, chin, nose and eyes.
  • The main symptoms include redness, visible small blood vessels and bumps or pimples on your face.
  • There's no cure, but medicines are available that can help control it.
  • Many people with rosacea find that certain things trigger their symptoms.

What is rosacea?

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

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:

Facial redness is the most common sign of rosacea. The redness can become more noticeable over time.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

What causes rosacea?

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

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

Weather conditions, such as:

Things you eat or drink, such as:

  • alcohol
  • hot food and drinks
  • spicy foods

How you're feeling, such as:

Other factors, such as:

  • exercise
  • certain medicines
  • some skin care products
  • hot baths

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.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

How is rosacea diagnosed?

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

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

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:

Medical treatments

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

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:

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

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.

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