Rosacea is a long term inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects the central face. It can cause persistent color change, flushing, visible small blood vessels, sensitive skin and spots that resemble acne. Symptoms often come and go. Rosacea is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.
Common signs and symptoms
- Frequent flushing or warmth across the cheeks, nose, forehead or chin
- Persistent red, pink, purple, brown or dusky color changes, depending on skin tone
- Small visible blood vessels
- Burning, stinging, dryness or sensitivity
- Inflamed bumps and pus filled spots without the blackheads typical of acne
- Thickened skin, most often around the nose, in some people
- Eye irritation, dryness, redness, gritty discomfort or swollen eyelids
Colour changes can be less obvious on brown or black skin. Burning, warmth, swelling, eye symptoms and changes in skin texture may be important clues.
What triggers a flare
Triggers differ from person to person. Common examples include sunlight, hot or cold weather, heat, strenuous exercise, emotional stress, hot drinks, alcohol, spicy food and irritating skincare products. Keeping a brief diary of symptoms and exposures can help identify a personal pattern.
The exact cause is not fully understood. Research suggests that immune activity, blood vessel responses, genetics, microorganisms on the skin and environmental factors may all contribute.
Diagnosis
There is no single test for rosacea. A healthcare professional usually makes the diagnosis from the appearance and pattern of symptoms and may consider other conditions such as acne, eczema, lupus or contact dermatitis. Tell the clinician about eye symptoms because ocular rosacea may need separate treatment.
Skin care and treatment
Use a gentle fragrance free cleanser, a moisturiser suitable for sensitive skin and broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating acids and products that sting or contain known triggers. Introduce new products one at a time.
Treatment is tailored to the symptoms. Prescription creams or gels may reduce inflammatory spots or persistent facial color. Oral medicines may be used for more extensive inflammation. A dermatologist may discuss laser or light treatment for visible blood vessels and persistent color change. Thickened skin sometimes needs a procedure or surgery.
Rosacea has no cure at present, but treatment and trigger management can control symptoms. Improvement is usually gradual, and maintenance treatment may be needed. Do not use a strong corticosteroid cream on the face unless a healthcare professional has specifically prescribed it, as it can worsen rosacea or cause a similar rash.
Eye symptoms
Eye involvement can occur before or alongside skin symptoms. Arrange medical advice if you develop ongoing eye redness, burning, dryness, crusting around the lashes or recurrent eyelid swelling. Gentle eyelid care and prescribed treatment may help.
Seek urgent eye care for eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, reduced vision or marked redness. These symptoms can indicate inflammation of the cornea or another condition that needs prompt treatment.
When to seek medical advice
See a healthcare professional if facial symptoms persist, worsen, affect your wellbeing, or do not respond to gentle skin care. Early treatment can reduce discomfort and help prevent progression. Ask for support if the visible symptoms are affecting confidence, mood or social life.
Related information
Learn more about facial rashes and long term skin conditions in our Skin Health section. You may also wish to read about acne and psoriasis.
Sources
- NHS: Rosacea
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Rosacea overview
- NIAMS: Diagnosis, treatment and steps to take
- American Academy of Dermatology: Diagnosis and treatment
Using this information
This information supports general understanding and preparation for a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. It does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.
Reviewed: 28 August 2026