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Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that typically begins with episodes of facial redness and may progress to persistent flushing, particularly on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It is caused by an overabundance of small, dilated blood vessels and often develops after the age of 30. However, it can also appear earlier, including in adolescence.
Contrary to popular belief, rosacea affects both men and women. While it may be diagnosed more frequently in women, men often experience more severe forms of the condition, often due to delays in seeking medical attention.
Beyond its visible signs, rosacea can significantly impact emotional well-being. Studies show that nearly three-quarters of individuals with rosacea report a decrease in self-esteem, and many say it affects their professional and social lives. Symptoms like dry skin, ocular discomfort, and chronic redness can be difficult to manage without expert care. At Dermapure, we offer advanced, personalized treatment solutions to support long-term skin health and help restore confidence.
Redness appears occasionally and often comes and goes without warning. Known as flushing, these episodes are commonly triggered by external or lifestyle factors such as temperature changes, spicy food, alcohol, hot beverages, or physical activity. At this stage, the skin barrier may begin to feel more reactive, and flare-ups can become more frequent.
With time, facial redness becomes more constant and typically settles in the central area of the face—across the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. This stage is referred to as erythematotelangiectatic rosacea and is characterized by persistent erythema and the appearance of telangiectasia, or visibly dilated blood vessels. This vascular component contributes to the sustained redness and sensitivity of the skin.
Without appropriate treatment, rosacea can progress to an inflammatory stage. Papules and pustules, small red bumps or fluid-filled pimples, begin to form. The skin may feel hot, tender, or have a burning or tingling sensation. Often confused with acne, this phase is known as papulopustular rosacea, but it requires a completely different approach. Swelling may also occur, especially during flare-ups.
As inflammation persists, small red veins (telangiectasia) become more visible beneath the skin, particularly on the cheeks and nose. The skin can start to thicken, especially around the nose, creating uneven texture and more pronounced features. This structural change reflects the skin’s prolonged inflammatory response and may signal the onset of phymatous rosacea.
In advanced and rare cases, rosacea can become phymatous, leading to rhinophyma—a bulbous enlargement of the nose, more commonly seen in men. The skin becomes rough, thickened, and visibly distorted. Additionally, ocular rosacea may develop, affecting the eyelids, conjunctiva, and even the cornea. Symptoms include dry, red, irritated eyes, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and, in some cases, styes or meibomian gland dysfunction.
Rosacea affects over 3 million Canadians, yet many don’t realize they have it. Early signs, like temporary redness or sensitivity, are often mistaken for irritation or acne, delaying proper care and making symptoms worse over time.
Rosacea is believed to result from a combination of genetic, vascular, immune, and environmental factors. Among these, intense and cumulative UVA exposure is a major trigger. Though more frequently diagnosed in fair skin, rosacea also affects darker skin tones and can be underrecognized.
UV rays are among the most common triggers for rosacea flare-ups. Even short-term exposure can worsen symptoms, especially for those with moderate rosacea or mild symptoms in early stages. Wind, sudden temperature changes, and high humidity may also cause flushing of rosacea. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure are key preventive strategies.
Rosacea often runs in families. If you have a close relative with the condition, your chances of developing it are higher, especially if you have fair facial skin, light eyes, or a tendency to blush easily. The condition is more common in women, but studies show that men may experience more severe rosacea, particularly because they tend to delay seeking initial therapy. While genetics alone don’t determine your outcome, they create a predisposition that may be triggered by other factors over time.
People with rosacea often have overactive blood vessels, which react strongly to external stimuli like heat, stress, or certain foods, resulting in persistent facial erythema. Additionally, nerve hypersensitivity and an overstimulated immune response can drive chronic inflammation. Research also points to irregularities in cathelicidin, a skin-defense protein, which may worsen rosacea symptoms when overproduced causing swelling, redness, and dilation of capillaries.
Microscopic mites called Demodex folliculorum live naturally on the skin, particularly in sebaceous-rich areas like the nose and cheeks. In people with rosacea, an overgrowth of these mites may lead to irritation and inflammation. Some studies also associate Helicobacter pylori infection with rosacea, suggesting a potential link between gut health and cutaneous rosacea. These imbalances can disrupt the skin’s natural defenses and intensify flare-ups.
Because rosacea-prone skin is highly sensitive, products containing alcohol, fragrance, abrasive materials, or active ingredients like witch hazel or menthol can trigger flare-ups. Even skincare marketed for sensitive skin may contain potential irritants. Adopting a routine that includes topical therapies like azelaic acid (a commonly recommended first-line therapy) alongside adjunctive skin care focused on hydration and barrier repair, can help maintain skin comfort and minimize inflammatory lesions.
Several daily habits can influence how rosacea presents and progresses. Common triggers include spicy food, hot beverages, alcohol, emotional stress, intense exercise, and exposure to cold weather. Certain drug therapies, such as topical corticosteroids, vasodilators, and some acne medications, can worsen symptoms if not used appropriately. Smoking has also been linked to worsening symptoms and vascular damage. Identifying and managing these triggers, sometimes through a combination of oral therapy and lifestyle changes, can support successful treatment and long-term remission.
Sun exposure is one of the leading external triggers of rosacea. Even minimal contact with UV rays can cause flare-ups, particularly in those with fair or sensitive skin. It is essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, regardless of the season or weather conditions. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak hours of sunlight, can help minimize facial erythema and skin sensitivity. This simple routine can play a major role in maintaining long-term skin balance.
Certain foods and beverages have been shown to provoke rosacea symptoms by dilating blood vessels and increasing internal heat. Spicy dishes, hot drinks, alcohol, and even coffee may lead to visible redness and flushing. While these do not cause rosacea, they can exacerbate existing symptoms. Adjusting your diet based on what your skin reacts to most often—either by reducing or eliminating certain items—can help you gain better control. Many patients find that keeping a food journal helps identify patterns specific to their skin.
Rosacea-prone skin tends to react strongly to common skincare and cosmetic ingredients. To protect and soothe your skin, choose mild, non-scented cleansers and avoid foaming products or exfoliants, which can weaken the skin barrier. Cleansing with lukewarm water, not hot, is important to avoid triggering blood flow. Moisturizing regularly with gentle, alcohol-free products helps maintain hydration and protect against external irritants. Oil-based foundations and heavy creams should be avoided, as they can clog pores and intensify inflammation. Using topical therapies like azelaic acid, under professional guidance, may also help reduce inflammatory lesions and improve skin clarity.
Sudden changes in temperature, strong winds, hot baths, and even high humidity can aggravate rosacea symptoms. Managing your exposure to these conditions plays a crucial role in prevention. In cold weather, wearing a scarf can protect the cheeks and nose. During heatwaves or intense exercise, it’s important to stay cool and hydrated. Using a humidifier at home, especially in winter, can also help maintain moisture in the air and prevent dry skin that may exacerbate symptoms.
Emotional stress is a well-documented trigger for many rosacea patients. Episodes of anxiety, nervousness, or emotional fatigue can lead to increased redness and flushing. Incorporating stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as deep breathing, meditation, stretching, or even walking, can make a noticeable difference in symptom control. Prioritizing restful sleep and mental well-being is not just good for your health, but for your skin as well.
Vascular lasers offer a safe, effective way to reduce rosacea-related redness and visible blood vessels. Using technologies like Nd:YAG, VBeam, Cutera, Fotona, and Perfecta, these lasers target hemoglobin with precision, collapsing dilated vessels while preserving surrounding tissue. The result is a clearer, more even complexion with fewer flare-ups and improved skin texture. Treatments are non-invasive, well-tolerated, and performed by trained medical professionals, with minimal side effects such as temporary redness or swelling.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), also known as photorejuvenation, uses a broad spectrum of light to treat diffuse redness, visible capillaries, and pigmentation issues. Unlike lasers, IPL reaches multiple layers of skin and is especially effective for mild to moderate rosacea. It also addresses sun damage and uneven skin tone. Patients typically see gradual improvement over several sessions, and the treatment is well tolerated, with only mild warmth or snapping sensations during the procedure.
Fractional radiofrequency is a non-invasive treatment that targets both the visible signs of rosacea and underlying skin fragility. By delivering precise thermal energy to the dermis, it stimulates collagen production and promotes vascular balance, helping to correct existing symptoms such as redness and textural changes, while also working to prevent future flare-ups. This treatment is well tolerated and may be combined with other clinical solutions for long-term results.
Excel V is one of the most advanced and precise technologies available for treating both vascular and pigmented lesions, including the redness and visible blood vessels characteristic of rosacea. The green laser wavelength targets the chromophores in the skin—hemoglobin and melanin—causing blood vessels to collapse and brown spots to fade. The built-in cooling system ensures comfort and safety during treatment. Excel V is particularly well-suited for patients seeking a comprehensive solution for rosacea, spider veins, sun damage, and skin discoloration, with visible results after just a few sessions.
For rosacea patients experiencing thickened skin texture or early signs of collagen degradation, microneedling can help stimulate new collagen production, improving firmness and reducing uneven surface texture. This treatment creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response while enhancing the absorption of anti-inflammatory serums. Though not suitable during active inflammatory flare-ups, microneedling can be an excellent complementary treatment for certain rosacea profiles when performed under professional supervision.
Exosome therapy is an emerging regenerative treatment that uses cell-derived messengers to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and support overall skin health. For rosacea-prone skin, exosomes may help calm chronic inflammation and enhance the skin’s ability to repair itself, especially following procedures such as microneedling, laser treatments or JetPeel.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy involves using the patient’s own plasma—rich in growth factors—to stimulate tissue repair and collagen production. In the context of rosacea, PRP may support skin healing, improve barrier function, and reduce inflammatory sensitivity, particularly in cases where the skin has become reactive or fragile. It can be used as a standalone treatment or combined with microneedling to enhance skin recovery and texture.
Composed of a unique formula of active ingredients such as lipopeptides, phytosterols, as well as omega-3, -6 and -9, the Redness Reducer serum has been specifically designed to minimize the onset of redness. It is recommended to use it twice daily to refresh the skin, to reduce inflammation and to promote skin recovery following certain clinical interventions, including IPL Photorejuvenation.
For deep and gentle facial cleansing, the Detox mask is the perfect solution. Containing a unique blend of plant extracts and white clays, the mask soothes the irritation caused by rosacea and refreshes the skin, while Vedrine provides an anti-aging action and optimal hydration.
Although it was first developed with the purpose of restoring weakened skin as a result of treatment, the pre-post treatment cream 2 proves to be an effective product to control rosacea and to help the sensitive skin that characterizes it. In fact, this neutral, odourless, moisturizing and protective cream contains an optimized ratio of essential lipids that resolves skin dryness and inflammation of the small blood vessels of the face.
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Rosacea flare-ups can be caused by a variety of triggers, which vary from person to person. The most common include:
Identifying your personal triggers and avoiding them when possible is key to controlling flare-ups.
Rosacea is generally classified into four subtypes:
Rosacea typically affects the central part of the face—especially the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. In some cases, it may also involve the eyes (ocular rosacea). It does not usually spread to other areas of the body.
Rosacea is usually diagnosed clinically by a primary care physician or dermatologist based on symptoms and appearance. Because it can resemble other conditions like acne or eczema, a dermatology consultation may be helpful for a more precise evaluation, especially in atypical or persistent cases.
Menopausal flushing tends to come on suddenly, is associated with a sensation of heat, and fades quickly. Rosacea-related flushing is usually more persistent and often comes with visible blood vessels or breakouts. Telangiectasias are common in rosacea, but not typically seen in menopause.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of rosacea. Options include topical therapies like azelaic acid or metronidazole, oral medications such as low-dose doxycycline, and laser treatments for visible vessels. A personalized approach combining several methods often yields the best results.
There is currently no cure for rosacea, but with proper treatment, it can be managed effectively. In some cases, symptoms may go into remission for long periods. While flare-ups can return, consistent care can greatly reduce their frequency and intensity.
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that includes redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like lesions. Couperose, on the other hand, is purely vascular—it involves dilated blood vessels but no inflammation, bumps, or pustules. Both can cause facial redness, but they require different treatment approaches.
Dermapure is Canada’s largest network of premium medical aesthetic clinics, renowned for its exceptional medical team and dedication to helping clients achieve their aesthetic goals. With locations nationwide, Dermapure offers advanced treatments and personalized care, setting the standard for excellence in medical aesthetics.
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