What Is Rosacea and What Causes It?

Rosacea is a common, long-term inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects the face, particularly the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. Symptoms can include persistent facial redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, burning or stinging, sensitive skin, and in some people, acne-like bumps and pustules.

What causes rosacea?

There isn’t one single cause. Research suggests rosacea develops through a combination of genetic, immune, vascular and environmental factors. People with rosacea may have an increased inflammatory response within the skin alongside facial blood vessels that are more sensitive and reactive.

The skin barrier can also be impaired, increasing dryness, sensitivity and irritation. Research has also found an association between rosacea and higher numbers of Demodex mites—microscopic organisms that naturally live on our skin—which may contribute to inflammation in some people.

What triggers rosacea flare-ups?

Triggers vary between individuals but commonly include sun and UV exposure, heat, temperature changes, alcohol, spicy foods, hot drinks, exercise, stress and irritating skincare products.

Rosacea can look very different from one person to another, so identifying your symptoms, skin type and individual triggers is an important part of effective management.

At SE Medical Aesthetics & Skin Clinic in Chorley, Lancashire, our clinical skin consultations and digital skin analysis allow us to assess redness, sensitivity and overall skin health before creating a personalised, evidence-led rosacea treatment and skincare plan.

Understanding your rosacea is the first step towards calmer, healthier-looking skin.