Rosacea

Women with fair skin in particular suffer from recurring or permanent facial redness without knowing that it may be caused by a chronic skin disease.

Rosacea , also known as facial rash , is an inflammatory condition that can manifest itself through redness, visible veins, pimple-like skin changes, and in severe cases, even thickening of the skin. Diagnosis is not always easy, as this skin condition occurs in various forms and is often confused with acne or an allergy .

It's crucial to identify the correct type of rosacea early and begin the appropriate treatment. The earlier treatment is initiated, the better the chances of preventing flare-ups and slowing the progression of the disease. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this widespread condition.

Whether you have an existing problem with rosacea or just suspect it, you've come to the right place. We'll explain all the options and work with you to select the right treatment method.

Our specialists will be happy to explain the treatment process in advance and answer any questions you may have. Book an appointment directly , write to us, or call us!

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What are the treatment options for rosacea?

The treatment of rosacea always depends on the individual clinical picture, symptoms, and stage of the skin disease. Because rosacea can occur in various forms, it requires a tailored therapy. The goal is to relieve symptoms, minimize skin changes, and prevent further flare-ups.

Lifestyle and nutrition

In addition to medical treatment, everyday life also plays a key role in managing this chronic skin condition. Many people react sensitively to certain triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods, extreme temperature fluctuations, or direct sunlight. Targeted nutritional advice and keeping a skin diary can help identify and avoid personal triggers. Stress management, gentle skin care, and avoiding irritating cosmetics are also important components in the daily management of rosacea.

These foods should be avoided if you have rosacea on your face:

alcohol
tomatoes
Chocolate
cayenne pepper
hot sauces
Citrus fruits

Recommended foods for rosacea:

low-sugar fruits such as apples, berries, apricots and oranges
all kinds of lettuce, spinach, beans, peas and lentils
Nuts such as almonds, pine nuts, hazelnuts and cashews
Fish such as herring, carp, mackerel and trout
Drinks such as water, tea without sugar, oat milk and almond milk

Antibiotics & Medications

For moderate to severe cases, especially in cases of severe inflammation, medication is recommended. Low-dose antibiotics are prescribed, primarily from the tetracycline group. These antibiotics have an anti-inflammatory effect and often improve skin symptoms within a few weeks. They are generally well tolerated by most patients and can be used long-term under medical supervision.

Modern technology

For many patients with visible dilated blood vessels (telangiectasias), nodules, or persistently reddened skin, laser treatment offers an effective solution. Advanced laser systems specifically target the hemoglobin in the blood and permanently close the dilated vessels. In advanced cases of rhinophyma, treatment can help remove excess tissue and restore the skin's natural appearance. This is usually done using liquid nitrogen or a scalpel.

Supplementary procedures

In addition to conventional therapy, a cosmetic-dermatological facial treatment such as microneedling can be used for rosacea. Targeted microperforation of the skin's surface stimulates collagen production, promotes circulation, and improves skin texture in the long term. Redness is reduced, scars are smoothed, and unevenness is smoothed out. Patients with sensitive skin in particular benefit from this gentle method when used in combination with other treatments.

What are the causes and risk factors for the development of rosacea

Despite intensive research, specialists have not yet been able to identify a clear cause for the development of rosacea. Rather, it is assumed that a genetic predisposition plays a central role. This is complemented by a complex interaction of neurological, immunological, and external stimuli. The skin reacts hypersensitively, leading to inflammatory processes in the facial skin. Rosacea typically affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50, although the disease is diagnosed significantly more frequently in women than in men. Children are rarely affected, but the so-called ocular form, which involves involvement of the eyes, can develop, especially in adolescents. Skin type also appears to play a role. Fair skin is more prone to redness and visible veins, and fair-skinned people are therefore at increased risk. Interestingly, rhinophyma develops almost exclusively in men, even though they are less likely to develop rosacea. Although the exact causes are unknown, certain triggers can be identified that may favor an acute attack or worsening of symptoms:

Possible triggers of rosacea flare-ups on the face

Strong UV radiation: Intense sun exposure irritates facial skin and can intensify inflammatory processes. Therefore, consistent UV protection in everyday life is essential.

Long sunbaths: Those who regularly expose themselves to the sun without protection risk skin redness and dilated blood vessels, a classic risk factor for rosacea.

Nicotine and alcohol: Both promote vasodilation and are known trigger factors for rosacea. Avoiding them can lead to a significant improvement in symptoms.

Spicy foods and hot drinks: Capsaicin in chili peppers and high temperatures irritate the skin from within. A healthy diet can help better control the condition.

Hot showers, baths, or saunas: Strong temperature fluctuations and excessive heat exposure promote inflammation and vascular reactions in the face.

Irritating skin care products: Lotions or creams containing fragrances, alcohol, or harsh ingredients can weaken the skin barrier and increase inflammation.

Psychological stress : Emotional stress such as anxiety or nervousness affects the nervous system and promotes vascular reactions, a common trigger in many patients.

Wind or extreme temperatures: Heat and cold cause blood vessels to overreact and increase facial redness. Wind can also further irritate sensitive skin.

Heat from heating: Dry air from indoor heaters draws moisture from the skin and aggravates symptoms. Regular ventilation and humidifiers can help.

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that manifests differently in each person, both in the intensity of the symptoms and in the affected area of the face. Dermatologists generally distinguish three stages of the disease , each of which presents with different skin manifestations.

Stage 1: Early signs on the face

In the initial stages, visible redness and dilated capillaries usually appear on the cheeks and nose, symptoms that are very similar to rosacea. The facial skin is often sensitive and prone to burning, itching, or tightness. This phase is also known as rosacea erythematosa.

What are the stages and symptoms of rosacea?

Stage 2: Inflammatory changes in the skin

As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen. Inflammatory papules and pustules develop, which is why rosacea is often confused with acne at this stage. This condition is called rosacea papulopustulosa. The skin reacts irritably to heat or cold, becomes inflamed, and may be painful. The cheeks, chin, and forehead are particularly affected.

Stage 3: Skin thickening and nodule formation

In the most severe cases, there is a significant change in the skin's surface, primarily on the nose. The tissue thickens, causing swelling and lumpy skin growths. This form of the disease is called hypertrophic rosacea. If severe rhinophyma develops, colloquially known as a "bulbous nose," the sebaceous glands are significantly enlarged.

Special form in the eyes: Ophthalmo Rosacea

In some cases, not only areas of skin like the cheeks or forehead are affected, but also the eyes or eyelids. This special form of rosacea, known as ophthalmo rosacea, causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, eyelid margin, or iris. Those affected complain of dryness, burning, or a foreign body sensation.

Detect rosacea early and get professional treatment

Although rosacea is not curable, it is now highly treatable. It is important that treatment is holistic and tailored to the individual needs of the patient, whether through creams, medications, lasers, or complementary procedures.

If you consult a specialist or an experienced doctor early on, you can effectively and sustainably get skin redness, inflammation and annoying veins on the face under control.