Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that is more common in those with fairer skin.
Rosacea is a long term inflammatory skin condition that is more common in people with fairer complexions, although it can affect any skin type. It is characterised by facial redness that often involves the nose, cheeks, chin and the area between the eyebrows. Some people also experience acne like breakouts with red, swollen bumps that may contain pus. Visible facial capillaries can occur, and many people either appear consistently red or flush easily. The skin may feel warm, hot or tender. Other features can include sensitive skin, watery or bloodshot eyes and a stinging or burning sensation. Multiple factors can trigger flares. Some are easily identified, while others require a trial and review approach. Once a trigger is identified, minimising exposure to that trigger can help reduce flare ups.
Some triggers can be:
- Hot or spicy food
- Dairy foods in some individuals
- Alcohol, particularly red wine
- Fluctuations in temperature, including hot baths and saunas
- Ultraviolet exposure
- Stress or strong emotions
- Strenuous exercise
- Oral or topical corticosteroids
- Medicines that dilate blood vessels, including some blood pressure medicines
- Inappropriate or irritating skin care products
Treatments for rosacea
- Medical microneedling when clinically appropriate
- Chemical peels selected for your skin type and sensitivity
- Laser treatment for visible capillaries following assessment
Management is personalised and begins with an assessment by a registered health professional to confirm the diagnosis, discuss expected benefits and limits of each option, and consider alternatives. Daily sun protection with broad spectrum SPF 50+, protective clothing and shade seeking is important. Skincare that supports the skin barrier and avoids known irritants is usually recommended. Outcomes vary between individuals and more than one session is often required for best results.
Risks and Recovery
All procedures carry risk and are not suitable for everyone. Your practitioner will take a medical history, assess skin type and triggers, and provide individualised advice before any treatment is offered.
- Common temporary effects: after microneedling, peels or laser, redness, warmth, mild swelling, tightness, dryness or flaking can occur for several days.
- Less common risks: irritation or flare of rosacea, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, blistering, infection, prolonged redness, visible vessel matting, or scarring in rare cases. Eye symptoms may require medical review.
- Photosensitivity: many treatments and active ingredients can increase sun sensitivity. Daily SPF 50+, hats and sun avoidance are essential during and after treatment.
- Course and maintenance: multiple sessions may be recommended. Maintenance with gentle skincare, sun protection and trigger management is often needed. Results differ between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
- Precautions: recent tanning, photosensitising medicines, pregnancy, active skin infection, severe skin sensitivity or certain medical conditions may affect timing or suitability. Please disclose all medical conditions and medicines.
- Aftercare: follow the instructions provided by your practitioner, avoid picking or scratching and use only the skincare products recommended during recovery.
The information above is general and does not replace personalised medical advice. A face to face or telehealth consultation with an appropriately qualified and registered health professional is required before any treatment can be provided.