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Rosacea Awareness Month: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Introduction

Each April, Rosacea Awareness Month shines a spotlight on a skin condition that affects more than over 16 million Americans and an estimated 400 million people worldwide. Despite how common it is, rosacea is frequently mistaken for acne, skin sensitivity, or sun damage, leading many people to go undiagnosed and untreated.

Rosacea typically appears as facial redness, visible blood vessels, and flare-ups that can worsen over time. For many, it significantly impacts self-esteem and daily comfort. This awareness month serves as a reminder of the importance of early diagnosis and access to proper treatment.

In this article, we’ll explore the signs, symptoms, causes, and most effective treatments for rosacea—plus helpful day-to-day strategies to manage flare-ups. If you’ve noticed persistent redness or irritation, it might be time to consult a professional.

While this article spells out some important information about rosacea, we highly recommend you read the full article, here are the key points we will focus on:

Table of Contents

What Is Rosacea and Why Does It Happen?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the face. It leads to redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, research points to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune-related factors.

According to the National Rosacea Society, rosacea often develops in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 and may worsen over time without treatment. Possible contributing factors include abnormal blood vessel function, an overactive immune response, and the presence of microscopic mites on the skin (Demodex).

Rosacea is not contagious and isn’t caused by poor hygiene, but flare-ups can be triggered by things like sun exposure, spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, heat, and emotional stress. Understanding and avoiding these triggers is key to managing symptoms.

What Are the Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea?

Rosacea can present in several ways, often making it hard to recognize in its early stages. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Facial Redness: Persistent redness or flushing, especially on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.
  • Visible Blood Vessels: Tiny, broken blood vessels (telangiectasia) that appear close to the skin’s surface.
  • Bumps and Pimples: Acne-like breakouts that may resemble traditional acne, but usually without blackheads.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Burning, stinging, or itching sensations that may be triggered by skincare products or weather.
  • Thickened Skin: In more advanced cases (especially in men), skin—often on the nose—can become thickened and bumpy (a condition called rhinophyma).
  • Eye Irritation: Red, dry, or watery eyes with a gritty sensation—signs of ocular rosacea.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent rosacea from progressing or becoming more difficult to manage.

Who Is Most at Risk for Developing Rosacea?

Rosacea can affect anyone, but certain people are more likely to develop it due to genetic and environmental factors:

  • Adults between 30 and 50 years old
  • People with fair skin, especially those of Northern or Eastern European descent
  • Women, though men often experience more severe symptoms
  • Individuals with a family history of rosacea or skin sensitivity
  • Those with frequent sun exposure
  • People who flush easily or have reactive skin

What Are the Most Effective Ways to Treat Rosacea?

Although there’s no cure for rosacea, the right treatment plan can dramatically reduce symptoms. Effective options include:

  • Topical Medications: Prescription creams and gels to reduce redness and inflammation.
  • Oral Antibiotics: Used in moderate to severe cases to manage bumps and pimples.
  • Laser and Light Therapy: Targets visible blood vessels and persistent redness.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding known triggers, using gentle skincare, and protecting skin from sun exposure.

What Triggers Rosacea Flare-Ups and How Can You Avoid Them?

Common triggers that can lead to flare-ups include:

  • Sun exposure: Always wear a broad-spectrum SPF (even in winter).
  • Extreme weather: Wind, heat, or cold can aggravate symptoms—protect your skin with hats, scarves, and moisturizers.
  • Diet and alcohol: Spicy foods, hot drinks, and alcoholic beverages can all be triggers.
  • Stress: Manage through sleep, movement, and mindfulness practices.

Keeping a journal to track triggers and flare-ups can help you identify patterns and make informed lifestyle adjustments.

What Are the Best Skincare Products for Managing Rosacea?

The ideal rosacea skincare routine should be gentle, hydrating, and protective:

  • Fragrance-free cleansers: Avoid anything too harsh or drying.
  • Barrier-repair moisturizers: Look for ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid.
  • Mineral-based sunscreen: Products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best tolerated.
  • BMD Rosacea Gel: Our proprietary formula designed to soothe redness and calm inflammation.

 

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When Should You See a Dermatologist for Rosacea?

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to rosacea or if you’re struggling to control flare-ups on your own, it’s time to seek professional help. Book a dermatology consult if you’re experiencing:

  • Persistent redness that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter products
  • Acne-like breakouts that don’t respond to traditional acne treatments
  • Eye symptoms like dryness, irritation, or redness
  • Thickened or rough skin, especially around the nose
  • Recurring flare-ups despite avoiding known triggers

 

Getting an accurate diagnosis early on can make a huge difference in managing rosacea long-term.

How Can Bryn Mawr Dermatology Help You Treat Rosacea?

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we take a comprehensive approach to rosacea treatment, combining clinical expertise with compassionate, personalized care. Our board-certified dermatologists offer customized plans that may include prescription medications, laser treatments, lifestyle guidance, and medical-grade skincare—including our in-house BMD Rosacea Gel, specially formulated to soothe redness and irritation.

Whether newly diagnosed or struggling to manage chronic flare-ups, our team will work with you to find long-term relief. With convenient locations in Chesterbrook, Collegeville, and Villanova, PA, expert care is always within reach.

Schedule your consultation today at Bryn Mawr Dermatology or call (267) 486-3482 to take the first step toward healthier, calmer skin.

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Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Content Review Committee at Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Led by Board Certified Dermatologist, Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD, Bryn Mawr Dermatology incorporates a patient-focused outlook in every decision since we first opened our doors on the Main Line in 2005.
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By: Bryn Mawr Dermatology, Published: March 4 2024
Medically Reviewed By: Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD –March 3, 2025

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