Rosacea
A clear guide to rosacea, its different forms and triggers, and the approaches a doctor may consider after assessment.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a common, long-term inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects the central face. It often involves flushing, persistent redness and sensitivity, and it tends to come and go in phases.
Some people also develop visible small blood vessels, bumps and pustules, or thickening of the skin. The eyes can be affected as well.
Rosacea is usually managed rather than cured. Dr Marie-Claire will assess which features are present, because the right approach depends on the type of rosacea and how active it is.
What causes rosacea?
The exact cause is not fully understood. Research points to a combination of factors that vary between individuals.
Blood vessel changes
The small blood vessels in the face may dilate more readily, which contributes to flushing and persistent redness.
Immune and inflammatory response
An overactive inflammatory response in the skin is thought to play a central role in the bumps and sensitivity seen in rosacea.
Skin barrier sensitivity
A less resilient skin barrier can allow stinging, dryness and irritation, and may make some products difficult to tolerate.
Skin microorganisms
Tiny mites and bacteria that naturally live on the skin may be involved in the inflammation in some people.
Genetics and sun exposure
Rosacea often runs in families and is more common in fair skin. Cumulative sun exposure is associated with its development and flares.
Common triggers
Triggers differ from person to person, and keeping a simple diary can help identify yours.
- Sun exposure and heat, including hot showers and saunas
- Hot drinks, spicy food and alcohol for some people
- Emotional stress and strong emotions
- Strenuous exercise and warm environments
- Wind, cold air and sudden temperature changes
- Skincare products that sting or irritate the skin
Types of rosacea
Rosacea is described in subtypes, and many people have features of more than one at the same time.
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Marked by flushing, persistent central facial redness and visible fine blood vessels. The skin is often sensitive.
Papulopustular rosacea
Features red bumps and pustules in addition to redness, which can resemble acne. Whiteheads and blackheads are typically absent.
Phymatous rosacea
Involves gradual thickening and uneven texture of the skin, most often on the nose. When it affects the nose, it is called rhinophyma.
Ocular rosacea
Affects the eyes and eyelids, causing dryness, grittiness, redness or recurrent styes. It can occur with or without skin changes.
How is rosacea treated?
Rosacea is managed over time, and the plan is individual. Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin and discuss options in consultation. Individual results vary.
Trigger management and skin health
Identifying triggers, daily sun protection and a gentle routine suited to sensitive skin form the foundation of care. Dr Marie-Claire will outline an approach for your skin.
Discover moreEnergy-based treatments
Energy-based treatments may be considered for some textural features after assessment. Vascular redness may need other approaches, which are discussed in consultation.
Discover morePrescription treatments and referral
Prescription treatments, where appropriate, are discussed in consultation. Where rosacea affects the eyes, or is not settling, Dr Marie-Claire may refer you to a dermatologist or eye care professional.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cure for rosacea?
Rosacea is a long-term condition that is usually managed rather than cured. Many people find their symptoms can be controlled with trigger management, sun protection, a suitable skincare routine and, where appropriate, prescription treatments. Symptoms may still flare from time to time. Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin and discuss a realistic plan, and individual results vary.
How do I know if I have rosacea or acne?
Rosacea and acne can look alike, because both may involve bumps and pustules. Rosacea typically centres on flushing and persistent redness across the central face and lacks blackheads. Acne often appears across a wider area and includes blackheads. A medical assessment helps tell them apart, as the two are managed differently.
Can laser treat rosacea?
Energy-based treatments may be considered for some textural features of rosacea after assessment. They are not a general treatment for redness, and vascular redness may need other approaches discussed in consultation. Dr Marie-Claire will examine your skin and explain which options, if any, suit the features you have. No outcome is guaranteed.
When should rosacea be seen by a dermatologist?
A referral to a dermatologist may be appropriate when rosacea is severe, is not settling with initial care, or involves the eyes. Eye symptoms such as grittiness, redness or recurrent styes should be reviewed promptly. Dr Marie-Claire can assess your skin at her St Kilda studio and refer you on where that is the better pathway.
How much does rosacea treatment cost in Melbourne?
Cost depends on the area, the approach and the number of sessions, and it is set out in a written plan after consultation. UltraClear treatment prices are published on the pricing page. A consultation at her St Kilda studio lets Dr Marie-Claire examine your skin and discuss the options before anything is agreed.
Treatments that may be considered
Every plan starts with an assessment. Individual results vary.
UltraClear laser
A fractional fibre laser that may be considered for skin texture, pigmentation and scarring after assessment at a St Kilda consultation.
Discover more
Skin health
A tailored daily skincare regimen and sun protection plan, based on an assessment of your skin in St Kilda.
Discover moreRelated conditions
Important information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.