Treatment for rosacea is complex and requires a personally tailored combination of a dedicated skin care routine, sunscreen, medicated creams and possibly prolonged courses of antibiotics or isotretinoin. Some people may also need suitable light treatment. A good, long-term maintenance plan is crucial for ongoing control.

What is it?

Rosacea is a common problem that can affect any adult. It mostly presents as a red face.

What causes it?

The exact cause of rosacea is not known. A variety of factors can be involved in changes in rosacea including sun exposure, soap, heat, alcohol and some steroid creams.

What are the symptoms?

• A flushed red face
• Sensitive skin that tingles and burns easily
• Small red bumps or spots like pimples
• Coarser skin texture or a bumpy surface with more prominent pores
• Dry, red or irritated eyes.

What are the treatment options?

There is no cure but with good treatment, most people can control symptoms and manage flares. Treatment for rosacea includes:

• Skin care for sensitive skin
• Sun protection
• Skin treatment creams with active ingredients such as azelaic acid, metronidazole and brimonidine
• Oral medicines such as the antibiotics doxycycline and minocycline, or a specialist-only medication called isotretinoin
• Constant redness can also be treated with lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL).

What to expect at your appointment

We will ask you about your experience of rosacea, such as what creams you are using now and previous treatments you have tried. We will also ask questions about your past and current health. Your skin will be examined carefully for the features of rosacea. Usually, no specific tests will be needed to diagnose rosacea.