Rosacea myths v rosacea facts


There are many misconceptions about rosacea, Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist & British Skin Foundation Spokesperson busts some of the most common myths.

Rosacea is caused by poor hygiene
Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder predominantly affecting face. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is thought to occur due a number of factors including genetic predisposition, and undefined environmental and inflammatory triggers that cause blood vessels in the face to readily dilate. It is not caused by poor hygiene.

Rosacea is the same as acne
Rosacea was previously known as “acne rosacea”. This is incorrect and the two conditions are unrelated.

Rosacea only affects heavy drinkers
Rosacea is most common between the ages of 30-60 years in fair-skinned individuals. It is seen more frequently in women but can also occur in men. Alcohol does not cause rosacea, but in some people, can trigger flare-ups.

Rosacea is contagious
Rosacea is not considered contagious or infectious. You will not catch it from coming into contact with someone else that has it. Rosacea, can however, run in families.

Rosacea’s only symptoms are red cheeks or a red nose
In addition to redness, rosacea can also cause spots, flushing, and visible blood vessels. Occasionally, a burning or stinging sensation or skin “sensitivity” can occur. The skin, particularly of the nose, may thicken with time. Rosacea can also affect the eyes causing irritation, styes or swollen eyelids.

Only older people suffer from Rosacea
Rosacea is more common after the age of 30. Usually the symptoms are intermittent, but over the years, skin changes such as redness may become fixed and are present all the time.

Now that the myths have been busted, here are some facts

Rosacea is generally commoner in females and often presents with facial redness; this is usually intermittent at first, but over time can become fixed. Rosacea tends to affect those with fair skin, blue eyes, or Celtic origin.

Rosacea is quite a common condition frequently seen in dermatology clinics. The NHS estimates approximately 1 in every 600 people are diagnosed with rosacea each year in the UK.

The most effective ways to treat rosacea

Oral antibiotics, topical treatments, anti-flushing medication and laser therapies can all treat rosacea but must be used under the guidance of your dermatologist or doctor.

Handy hints

Avoid using perfumed soaps, use an emollient as an alternative. It’s best to stick to unperfumed moisturiser too.

Spicy foods, alcohol and hot drinks can exacerbate the condition.

It’s extremely important to use sunscreen daily to help manage your rosacea as UV radiation is one of the common triggers. Ideally an SPF of 50 should be worn that provides broad-spectrum, UVA and UVB protection.

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Last revised: 27 November 2017
Next review: 27 November 2020