Rosacea Symptoms

Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that mostly affects the skin on the face, though it can appear elsewhere. Symptoms include a rash, small bumps, and thickened areas of skin and can sometimes be mistaken for acne or allergies.

The visible signs of rosacea primarily appear on the skin, though their specific look and feel can vary from person to person.

• Persistent discoloration: This is often the most recognizable symptom. On lighter skin tones, it appears as a lasting redness or flush. On darker skin tones, the discoloration can be dusky, violet, or brown.

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• Bumps and pimples: Many people develop small, red, solid bumps (papules) and pus-filled pimples (pustules). Unlike acne, however, rosacea does not cause blackheads.

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• Visible blood vessels: Over time, tiny blood vessels, sometimes called spider veins, may become visible on the skin's surface (telangiectasia).
• Skin thickening: In some cases, the skin may develop a thicker, bumpy, or rough texture. This can sometimes form raised, firm patches called plaques.
• Stinging, burning, or itching: The affected skin often feels sensitive and may burn or sting, especially when touched or when using skincare products. Itching (pruritus) is also a common complaint, affecting around 42 percent of people with rosacea.

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Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR)

• Lasting redness or a dusky, violet-brown discoloration in the central part of the face
• A tendency to flush or blush easily
• Enlarged and visible blood vessels
• Sensitive skin that may sting or burn
• Skin that feels swollen, dry, or rough

Papulopustular Rosacea (PPR)

• Persistent facial discoloration
• Red, swollen bumps (papules) and pus-filled blemishes (pustules)
• Sensitive skin that may burn or sting

Phymatous Rosacea

• Skin that gradually becomes thick, bumpy, and irregular
• Enlarged pores
• Oily skin

Ocular Rosacea

• Eyes that feel dry, gritty, sandy, or itchy
• A burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
• A watery or bloodshot appearance
• Recurrent eye or eyelid infections, such as pink eye (conjunctivitis) and blepharitis
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision

Many people successfully manage their rosacea with treatment, but without treatment, some serious or lasting complications do sometimes occur, including the following.

• Gastrointestinal diseases like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

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• Cardiovascular conditions like hypertension and coronary artery disease

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• Neurological disorders like migraine and an increased risk for Parkinson's disease

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If you have lasting symptoms of facial flushing, discoloration, or bumps that don't go away, it's a good idea to see a dermatologist. An accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective rosacea management.

• Visual exam and health history: The first step is a close examination of your skin and eyes. Your doctor will look for the telltale signs of rosacea, like a specific pattern of discoloration or bumps without blackheads. Be prepared to talk about your symptoms, your family history, and what you think might be triggering your flare-ups.

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• Tests to rule out other conditions: If your symptoms overlap with other health issues, your doctor may order a blood test or skin biopsy to get a clearer picture. These tests are not for rosacea but are used to eliminate conditions that can look similar.

• The signs of rosacea can include everything from lasting discoloration and acne-like bumps to eye irritation.
• Because these symptoms can mimic other skin issues, getting a clear diagnosis from a dermatologist is the most important first step toward finding relief.
• The good news is that even though rosacea is a chronic condition, today's treatments are very effective at helping you control flare-ups and feel better in your skin.