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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/rosacea.html

Rosacea

Also called: Acne rosacea

Summary

Rosacea is a long-term disease that affects your skin and sometimes your eyes. It causes redness and pimples. Rosacea is most common in women and people with fair skin. It most often affects middle-aged and older adults.

In most cases, rosacea only affects the face. Symptoms can include:

  • Frequent redness of the face, or flushing
  • Small, red lines under the skin
  • Acne
  • A swollen nose
  • Thick skin, usually on the forehead, chin, and cheeks
  • Red, dry, itchy eyes and sometimes vision problems

No one knows what causes rosacea. You may be more likely to have it if you blush a lot or if rosacea runs in your family. Rosacea is not dangerous. There is no cure, but treatments can help. They include medicines and sometimes surgery.

NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Start Here

  • Rosacea (American Academy of Family Physicians) Also in Spanish
  • Rosacea (VisualDX)
  • Rosacea From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases) Also in Spanish

Treatments and Therapies

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Specifics

Genetics

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Statistics and Research

Clinical Trials

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Patient Handouts

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.