Rosacea: Symptoms and Triggers
Medically Reviewed by Dr Sravya, MBBS, MS
Introduction
The dermatological condition rosacea, pronounced roe-ZAY-she-uh, is common and is characterized by facial flushing and the development of visible blood vessels. Additionally, it could show up as little pimples filled with pus.

These symptoms may go through phases of exacerbation that last for a few weeks to a few months, followed by phases of remission.
Rosacea may be misdiagnosed as acne, other skin conditions, or even a naturally pink complexion. Although rosacea can affect people of any age or race, middle-aged Caucasian women are the most commonly affected. Unfortunately, there is no recognized treatment for rosacea. However, there are approaches to control and lessen its symptoms.
Rosacea types
Four different forms of rosacea exist:
- Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: This type of rosacea is distinguished by a prolonged redness of the face and the presence of swollen, obvious blood vessels (vascular). With unpredictable intervals of aggravation and remission, symptoms frequently flare.
- Papulopustular Rosacea: In this form, the skin produces lesions that resemble pimples and are fluid- or pus-filled. There may be swelling, and the signs and symptoms are similar to acne.
- Phymatous Rosacea: This type thickens and swells the skin, frequently giving it a bumpy texture. It typically affects the nose and can cause rhinophyma, a bulbous appearance.
- Ocular Rosacea: Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, producing sensitivity to light, inflammation, redness, and excessive tearing. The eyelids may develop painful lumps that resemble styes.
Rosacea prevalence and demographics
Over 14 million Americans suffer from rosacea, which is a common condition. Although it can affect anyone, people with pale complexions are more likely to experience it, and women and those who were given the gender of a female at birth are more likely to do so. After age 30,
symptoms typically start to show themselves. Although rosacea can affect toddlers and teenagers, these instances are quite uncommon. The likelihood of the illness developing is increased if there is a family history of it. According to research, men and those who are born male may experience more severe symptoms as a result of delayed treatment, allowing the illness to worsen.
What Brings on Symptoms of Rosacea?
Rosacea sufferers frequently encounter symptom flare-ups that are brought on by a variety of causes. Possible causes of rosacea symptoms include:
- exposure to the sun.
- Extremely hot or frigid temperatures.
- emotional and stress variables.
- alcoholic beverages.
- the eating of hot food.
- using lotions and hairspray or other cosmetic or personal care items.
- hormonal changes.
If you are unsure of the precise causes of your rosacea symptoms, you might want to keep a diary of your daily activities for a few days to a few weeks. This diary should include details like what you eat and drink, what skincare products you use, and how much time you spend outside. Keep track of the effects these factors have on your skin on each individual day. This routine can help you spot potential triggers so you can avoid them and, in turn, lessen the frequency of symptom flare-ups.
The following are examples of rosacea symptoms:
- Rosacea commonly causes persistent face redness or flushing, primarily affecting the central facial region. On people with brown and Black skin tones, this symptom could be less obvious.
- Blood vessels that can be seen: Tiny blood vessels on the nose and cheeks can burst and become visible, frequently mimicking spider veins.
- swollen bumps: Many rosacea sufferers experience the appearance of raised, acne-like lesions on their faces. Sometimes, pus may be present in these pimples.
- Heat sensation and discomfort: Affected skin may feel warm and tender, which is uncomfortable.
- Eye-related problems: People with rosacea frequently experience ocular rosacea, which is characterized by dry, itchy, and swollen eyes and eyelids. These eye symptoms may occasionally appear before the skin problems.
- Rhinophyma, or a bulbous appearance, is caused by the skin on the nose becoming thicker over time as a result of rosacea. Men tend to experience this symptom more frequently than women do.
When to Get Medical Help
Consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider if you experience persistent symptoms that affect your face or eyes for a complete diagnosis and suitable therapy.
Etiology
Although the precise etiology of rosacea is still unknown, it may be brought on by elements such an overactive immune system, genetic predisposition, environmental influences, or a combination of these. Importantly, rosacea is neither communicable nor associated with poor
hygiene habits.
Its possible for rosacea flare-ups to be brought on by:
- Hot drinks and spicy food
- Wine, as well as other alcoholic beverages
- Tempests of all kinds
- Wind or sunlight exposure
- Mental stress 5. Physical effort
- Drugs that widen blood vessels, such as several blood pressure medications
- Particular makeup, skincare, or hair care items
Factors That Could Boost Risk
Despite the fact that rosacea can affect people from all socioeconomic backgrounds, some factors, such as:
- Being a woman
- Possessing skin that is vulnerable to sunburn
- Being beyond 30 years old
- Using tobacco regularly
- Having rosacea in the family
Rosacea: Is it an autoimmune disorder?
Rosacea’s origins and its probable classification as an autoimmune disease are still being studied. There is proof of immune system dysfunction in several rosacea subtypes. The body’s immune system’s main job is to protect the body from diseases that are foreign to it and can make people sick, including germs. A particular bacterium called Bacillus oleronius, which is common in people with papulopustular rosacea, can cause an autoimmune reaction. This reaction causes an overactive immune system to unintentionally target healthy skin cells, which aids in the emergence of rosacea symptoms. Identifying and managing ocular rosacea triggers skin care through a personalized skincare routine is crucial for effective symptom control. Alternatively, it is possible that the immune system displays increased sensitivity to
environmental changes in some rosacea cases. Temperature changes and sunshine exposure are two examples of alterations that could cause rosacea symptoms. As a result, the immune system may overreact in reaction to environmental changes, which leads to the development of rosacea symptoms.