Overview
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that causes redness and flushing across the central face, often with small bumps and visible tiny blood vessels. It tends to flare and settle, and is set off by triggers like sun, heat, spicy food, hot drinks and stress. It is sometimes mistaken for acne or a simple blush. It cannot be cured but is well controlled by avoiding personal triggers, gentle skin care and medical treatments, and untreated eye involvement should be checked.
Symptoms
- Persistent redness across the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead
- Easy flushing and blushing
- Small red bumps or pus-filled spots
- Visible tiny blood vessels on the face
- A burning or stinging feeling, and gritty, irritated eyes in some
When to see a doctor
See a skin doctor for persistent facial redness or bumps, and promptly if the eyes become red, gritty or irritated.
Causes
The exact cause is unknown; factors include blood-vessel and immune changes, skin mites, and triggers like sun, heat, spicy food and stress.