Rosacea is a common but poorly understood chronic (long-term) skin condition that mainly affects the face. Symptoms begin with episodes of flushing (when the skin turns red).
People with rosacea may experience spots and persistent redness of their skin. Small blood vessels in the skin can become visible. In the most severe cases, the skin can thicken and enlarge, usually on and around the nose.
There is no cure for rosacea, but treatments are available to control the symptoms.
How common is rosacea?
Rosacea most commonly affects fair-skinned people from northern Europe and is estimated to affect up to 1 in 10 people.
Rosacea affects twice as many women as men, although it is usually more serious in men. The symptoms usually begin between the ages of 30 and 50.
Triggers of rosacea
While the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, several triggers have been identified that may make the symptoms worse in some people. These include:
- exposure to sunlight
- stress
- cold weather
- hot drinks
- alcohol
- eating certain foods, such as spicy foods
Identifying and avoiding the triggers of rosacea can be a useful way of controlling the symptoms.
Outlook
As well as avoiding the triggers, you can control the symptoms of rosacea by using a number of different medicines (see Rosacea – treatment).
Rosacea is a relapsing condition, which means that it will keep returning. People with rosacea will have periods when their symptoms are particularly bad, followed by periods when the condition is less severe. However, most cases of rosacea can be effectively controlled with medication.
