Rosacea

Skin & Dermatology

Rosacea is a common skin condition that can cause redness, flushing, and sometimes spots. While it can be frustrating, it is very manageable. At SwiftMedi, we offer safe and effective treatments that soothe irritation, improve skin comfort, and help restore confidence. With the right approach, flare-ups can be controlled and your skin can feel calmer and clearer day to day.

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About Rosacea

Overview


Rosacea is more than just facial redness — it’s a long-term skin condition that can leave you feeling self-conscious, uncomfortable, and frustrated. Flare-ups often appear without warning, causing burning sensations, visible veins, or acne-like bumps that don’t always respond to over-the-counter skincare. For many people, this daily battle can take a real toll on confidence.

But here’s the good news: rosacea can be managed. With the right combination of prescription treatments and lifestyle adjustments, flare-ups can be reduced, redness eased, and skin comfort restored. Many people find that once they discover the right approach, their skin becomes far more predictable — and their quality of life improves dramatically.

At SwiftMedi, our UK-registered prescribers can recommend effective rosacea treatments following a secure online consultation. From topical creams to oral medications, we’re here to help you find a routine that works for your skin and helps you feel like yourself again.

 



Symptoms


Rosacea symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly include:

  • Persistent facial redness, often on the cheeks or nose
  • Flushing (sudden, intense blushing or warmth)
  • Visible blood vessels (telangiectasia)
  • Red bumps or pustules that may resemble acne
  • Burning or stinging sensations on the skin
  • Thickened skin (in severe cases, usually on the nose — rhinophyma)
  • Eye symptoms (ocular rosacea), such as dryness, irritation, or swollen eyelids



Diagnosis


Diagnosis is usually based on clinical assessment by a GP or dermatologist. There are no specific tests, but a doctor may rule out other conditions (such as acne or lupus) that can mimic rosacea. Patients often notice a pattern of flare-ups linked to certain triggers, which can help confirm the diagnosis.


Treatments


There is no cure for rosacea, but symptoms can be managed with a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and skincare adjustments.

Medical treatments:
  • Topical creams or gels (e.g. metronidazole gel, azelaic acid, ivermectin cream) — reduce redness and inflammation
  • Oral antibiotics (e.g. doxycycline, lymecycline) — used for more severe or persistent rosacea with bumps or pustules
  • Laser or light therapy — can reduce visible blood vessels and redness

Lifestyle measures:
  • Avoiding known triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures
  • Using gentle, non-irritating skincare and high-SPF sun protection daily
  • Stress management techniques


SwiftMedi can provide prescription rosacea treatments online, following assessment by a prescriber.


Prevention


While rosacea cannot be prevented, flare-ups can often be minimised by:

  • Identifying and avoiding personal triggers
  • Protecting skin from sun exposure with SPF 30+ daily
  • Avoiding harsh skincare products or exfoliants
  • Managing stress levels and ensuring regular sleep
  • Limiting alcohol and spicy foods



Misconceptions


“Rosacea is just adult acne.” 

False. While it may look similar, rosacea is a distinct condition with different causes.


“Only fair-skinned people get rosacea.” 

False. It can affect all skin types, though redness may be less visible on darker skin tones.


“Rosacea means you drink too much.”

False. Alcohol can be a trigger, but rosacea is not caused by drinking.


“There’s nothing you can do about rosacea.”

False. While incurable, treatments and lifestyle changes can greatly reduce symptoms.



Frequently asked questions

  • What is rosacea and what causes it?

    Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that causes facial redness, flare-ups, visible blood vessels and sometimes spots. It often affects the cheeks, nose and forehead. Triggers vary and can include hot drinks, stress, sunlight, alcohol and temperature changes. Treatments and trigger management help keep symptoms under control.

  • What are the main symptoms of rosacea?

    Rosacea usually causes facial redness, flushing, small bumps, burning or stinging, and visible blood vessels. Some people develop thickened skin around the nose or eye irritation. Symptoms often come and go, with flare-ups triggered by heat, certain foods or alcohol.

  • What triggers rosacea flare-ups?

    Common triggers for rosacea include sunlight, heat, stress, spicy foods, alcohol, hot drinks, certain skincare products and changes in weather. Each person has different triggers, so keeping a simple diary can help identify what worsens symptoms. Reducing exposure often improves daily control.

  • How is rosacea diagnosed?

    Rosacea is usually diagnosed by a clinician examining the skin and asking about symptoms, triggers and flare patterns. No tests are normally needed. Diagnosis helps rule out similar conditions such as acne, eczema or allergic reactions.

  • What treatments are available for rosacea?

    Treatments depend on symptoms and may include topical creams like metronidazole, ivermectin or azelaic acid, or oral antibiotics for inflammation. For redness, some people use brimonidine gel. Lifestyle changes and trigger management also play an important role in long-term control.

  • Can rosacea be cured?

    Rosacea cannot be cured, but symptoms can be well-controlled with treatment and trigger avoidance. Many people find their skin becomes calmer and more predictable with a consistent routine and appropriate medication.

  • When should I see a clinician about rosacea?

    Seek help if redness, burning or bumps become persistent, if flare-ups affect confidence or daily life, or if your eyes feel irritated. A clinician can confirm the diagnosis, recommend suitable treatments and rule out other conditions.

  • Can rosacea get worse over time if untreated?

    Yes. Although rosacea varies from person to person, flare-ups can become more frequent or intense without treatment. Early management helps reduce long-term redness and prevents complications such as skin thickening or worsening eye symptoms.

  • Is rosacea linked to gut health or digestive issues?

    Some people with rosacea notice flare-ups after certain foods, alcohol or digestive upset. Research shows a possible connection with gut sensitivity, but this varies. Tracking foods and symptoms helps identify personal triggers.

  • Can sunscreen help prevent rosacea flare-ups?

    Yes. Sunlight is a major trigger for rosacea,  so using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily can significantly reduce flare-ups. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often better tolerated by sensitive skin.

  • Can rosacea affect the eyes?

    Yes. Ocular rosacea can cause dry eyes, burning, redness or sensitivity to light. Some people experience eyelid inflammation or styes. Eye symptoms should be reviewed early as they sometimes need different treatments.

  • Are certain skincare products better for rosacea?

    Gentle, fragrance-free products are usually best for managing rosacea. Avoid harsh exfoliants, strong acids, alcohol-based toners or heavily fragranced creams. Many people prefer simple routines with soothing moisturisers designed for sensitive skin.

  • Can stress make rosacea worse?

    Yes. Stress is a common trigger for rosacea and can worsen flushing and skin sensitivity. Techniques like deep breathing, regular breaks and good sleep can help stabilise flare patterns. Many people notice improvement when stress levels fall.

  • Can spicy foods and alcohol worsen rosacea?

    Both can trigger flushing in many people. Hot spices, red wine and spirits are common triggers, but sensitivities differ. Keeping notes on which foods affect you helps tailor your diet without unnecessary restrictions.

  • Does rosacea always cause visible redness?

    No. Some people mainly experience sensitivity, burning, bumps or flare-ups without constant redness. Rosacea has different subtypes, and symptoms vary widely. A clinician can identify your pattern and recommend tailored treatment.