Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition primarily affecting the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. Speak to a registered online doctor typically within 15 minutes (Based on typical wait times; may vary by demand and practitioner availability), 24/7.

When to consult a doctor for rosacea?

If facial redness or irritation is persistent

See a doctor if ongoing redness, flushing, or visible blood vessels on your face do not improve with home care, as early treatment helps control symptoms.

If bumps, swelling, or eye symptoms develop

Consult a doctor if you notice painful acne-like bumps, facial swelling, or eye symptoms such as dryness, irritation, or swollen eyelids.

If symptoms worsen or affect quality of life

Seek medical advice if rosacea symptoms are getting worse, skin changes such as thickening appear, or the condition impacts your confidence or daily life.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed. by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC.

Symptoms

Rosacea symptoms can come and go. Although rosacea can cause acne-like bumps, it is a separate condition. Unlike acne, rosacea does not involve blackheads and has different causes and treatment needs. Rosacea is characterized by a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild to more severe, often affecting the central part of the face. Symptoms include:

Facial redness: Persistent redness or flushing, particularly on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead

Visible blood vessels: Broken or dilated blood vessels can become visible on the skin

Bumps and pimples: Many people with rosacea develop small, red, acne-like bumps or pus-filled pustules on the face

Eye issues: Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, leading to redness, dryness, irritation, or swollen eyelids.

Thickened skin: In more advanced cases, particularly in men, the skin on the nose may thicken and appear swollen, a condition known as rhinophyma.

Burning or stinging sensation: Sensations of burning, itching, or stinging in the affected areas.

Causes

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it may involve genetic and environmental factors. Known triggers include:

Sun exposure: UV light can worsen rosacea.

Hot or cold weather: Temperature extremes often lead to flare-ups.

Spicy foods and alcohol: These can trigger redness and worsen symptoms.

Stress: Emotional stress can cause symptoms to flare

Rosacea management

Rosacea management typically involves a combination of identifying and avoiding personal triggers, skincare adjustments, and where appropriate, prescribed treatments. Consult a GP first to develop a management plan suited to your symptoms.

Hola Health provides a convenient way to consult an AHPRA-registered doctor online, 24/7 across Australia.

Clinical note: A telehealth assessment can help evaluate rosacea symptoms, provide management advice, and issue prescriptions for topical or oral treatments if clinically indicated. Visual assessment via video or high-resolution photos can assist with symptom evaluation. Telehealth is a complementary service — it does not replace regular in-person GP care. Rosacea presentations involving significant skin thickening (rhinophyma), suspected ocular rosacea affecting vision, or cases requiring specialist dermatology assessment may need in-person evaluation. A consultation does not guarantee a prescription. After-hours bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined periods; otherwise, private fees apply. If you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other medical emergencies, call 000 immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels, primarily on the face. Some people may also experience lumps, acne, and discomfort. Rosacea symptoms often appear in flare-ups caused by different factors. Management can help alleviate symptoms, but there is no permanent cure.

How can rosacea be managed? 

There is no permanent cure for rosacea, but medications and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and decrease flare-ups. Prescription creams, medications, mild skincare routines, and avoiding known triggers are potential management. A healthcare expert can suggest appropriate alternatives based on your symptoms. 

Is Rosacea itchy? 

Rosacea may cause itching, burning, stinging, or skin sensitivity, but not everyone experiences these symptoms. If your skin is persistently itchy, irritated, or changing, a doctor can assess your symptoms and determine whether rosacea or another skin condition is the cause. 

How can I tell if I have rosacea? 

Rosacea commonly causes facial redness, especially around the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. The redness may flare up and then settle over time.

Other potential signs are:

Visible tiny blood vessels
Face flushes easily
Small lumps and pimples
Burning or stinging skin
Eye irritation in some people.

A healthcare expert can evaluate your symptoms and confirm the cause.

What triggers rosacea flare-ups? 

Rosacea triggers vary between individuals, but common triggers may include:

Sun exposure
Hot weather
Spicy food
Alcohol
Stress
Hot beverages
Several skincare items

Identifying and avoiding personal triggers may alleviate flare-ups.

Can diets affect rosacea? 

Yes, food can influence rosacea symptoms in some people. Certain meals and drinks can cause flare-ups; however, the causes vary greatly. Spicy meals, alcohol, and hot drinks are examples of common dietary triggers. Keeping a record of foods that trigger your symptoms can help identify your personal triggers. 