Understanding Rosacea:

Rosacea is a very common yet still incompletely understood skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As a highly experienced dermatologist with a special interest in rosacea, I have diagnosed and treated countless patients with this condition, helping them achieve clearer, healthier skin.

Rosacea is a syndrome marked by redness and flushing of the face with or without red bumps and pimple like lesions. Visible blood vessels (capillaries) can develop over time causing persistent redness. Some people can go on to develop swelling and thickening of the skin the most common form of this is when it affects the nose (rhinophyma).

The skin is often sensitive and easily irritated.

The most likely people to develop rosacea have an English or Irish background, although it’s possible to get it even if your family genes are not Celtic or Northern European. It can affect people of all races and skin types.

Many rosacea sufferers are fair skinned, particularly women between the ages of 30 and 50, although rosacea also affects men and occasionally even teens. Researchers do not know why women get rosacea more often than men, and some cases have been associated with menopause.

Rosacea can sometimes be mistaken for, or coexist with, other facial rashes such as acne, seborrheic dermatitis, sundamage or perioral dermatitis. An accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure effective treatment and the best possible results.

What Causes Rosacea?

The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but research suggests a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. Individuals with rosacea often have an overactive skin immune response, leading to inflammation. Abnormalities in facial blood vessels and an increased presence of Demodex mites, which are naturally occurring skin organisms, have also been linked to rosacea.

Triggers such as heat, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress can further exacerbate symptoms.

Recognising the Different Types of Rosacea

The signs of rosacea can be different in each person so that it is crucial to tailor treatment to each individual.

– Persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, and flushing episodes.

- Redness with acne-like breakouts, often mistaken for adult acne.

- Thickened skin, especially on the nose (rhinophyma), leading to a bumpy texture.

- Ocular Rosacea – Affects the eyes, causing dryness, irritation, and redness.

Triggers and Factors That Worsen Rosacea

Many everyday factors can trigger or worsen rosacea symptoms. These include:

• Sun exposure

• Hot or spicy foods

• Alcohol, particularly red wine

• Extreme temperatures

• Emotional stress

• Skincare products containing irritants

• Certain medications, such as vasodilators

Avoiding known triggers and maintaining a gentle skincare routine is critical in managing rosacea symptoms.

The Emotional Impact of Rosacea

Rosacea is more than just a skin condition—it can have a profound impact on self-esteem and confidence. Many individuals with rosacea experience embarrassment, frustration, and even anxiety due to persistent redness and breakouts. Seeking expert dermatological care is vital in not only improving the skin’s appearance but also enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.

The key to successful management of rosacea is early diagnosis and treatment.

If you struggle with rosacea, I am here to help. With many years of experience in diagnosing and treating rosacea, I can provide expert guidance and personalised treatments to help you regain control of your skin and confidence.

Effective Treatment Options

Unfortunately as yet there is no cure for rosacea, but with the right approach, symptoms can be well controlled. The key elements of management include:

Lifestyle and Skincare Adjustments – Tailored recommendations to minimise triggers and maintain healthy skin.

Repairing the skin barrier function to improve the sensitivity:

Using the correct skincare and being careful everyday with your sun protection is vital to protecting your skin and controlling the flares.

Controlling the inflammation:

Prescription creams

Oral Antibiotics

Oral Isotretinoin

Clearing the redness and capillaries:

Vascular and other types of lasers and energy based devices are very important tools for managing rosacea long term. Once your rosacea is treated and under control, you may wish to consider having laser treatment to improve the remaining redness and/or dilated blood vessels. Many people find maintenance laser treatment every one-to-two years an excellent way to keep their redness and capillaries under control.

At Complete Skin Specialists we have a number of lasers to address facial redness and blood vessels. We perform a very large number of these treatments every year.

A consultation with Dr Welsh or one of our very experienced nurses and laser therapists is a good place to start.