Face with rosacea: tips and treatments

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects the face and causes persistent redness, pustules and high skin sensitivity.  Although the exact cause is unknown, it is known that factors such as sun exposure, stress and certain foods can trigger flare-ups or worsen symptoms. While there is no cure, rosacea can be managed with proper treatment and specific skin care. Gentle cleansing routines, consistent moisturising and daily use of sunscreen help to keep skin protected and prevent irritation.  We take a closer look in this article.

How rosacea affects the face

Rosacea is a common condition in fair-skinned people and is often made worse by sun exposure, stress and certain foods. Although rosacea cannot be cured, it can be managed with proper care, which can improve the appearance of the skin and reduce symptoms. 

Main symptoms on the face with rosacea

Symptoms of rosacea on the face can vary from mild to severe and mainly affect the central areas of the face, such as the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Frequent redness is one of the first signs, and is often accompanied by the appearance of visible blood vessels (telangiectasias) that become more noticeable as the disease progresses.

In addition, it is common to develop pustules and papules, inflamed lesions that are easily mistaken for acne, leading to misdiagnosis in some cases. People with rosacea also often experience a burning sensation, itching and extreme sensitivity in the affected areas, which can make it difficult to use cosmetic or personal care products.

In some cases, rosacea can spread to the eyes, known as ocular rosacea. Symptoms include dryness, redness and swelling of the eyelids, and can lead to vision problems if not treated properly. Ocular rosacea requires a specialised approach to avoid further complications.

Types of rosacea affecting the face

There are different types of rosacea that can occur on the face, each with specific symptoms:

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. This type is characterised by persistent redness and the presence of visible blood vessels (telangiectasias) in the skin. It is the most common type and is usually associated with frequent episodes of facial flushing.
• Papulopustular rosacea. It presents with acne-like lesions, such as papules and pustules, and is more common in women. This type can cause discomfort and sometimes pain in the affected areas.
• Phymatous rosacea. In severe cases, this type causes thickening of the skin, particularly on the nose, which can lead to a condition known as rhinophyma. It is more common in men and can alter the appearance of the face significantly.
• Ocular rosacea. In addition to skin symptoms, some people develop ocular rosacea, which affects the eyes with dryness, redness and, in severe cases, swelling of the eyelids. If left untreated, it can lead to serious eye complications.

Causes of rosacea on the face and triggering factors

Rosacea on the face is caused by a combination of factors. Let’s look at the most relevant ones.

Environmental factors affecting the face with rosacea

Environmental factors play a prominent role in the development of rosacea symptoms on the face. Sun exposure is one of the main triggers, as ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes dilation of blood vessels and increases inflammation. Daily use of sunscreen is therefore essential to prevent outbreaks. Extreme weather, whether hot or cold, can also aggravate symptoms. Sudden changes in temperature, such as going from a very cold environment to a hot one, can trigger redness and sensitivity.

Wind and dry weather dry out the skin and increase irritation, contributing to the appearance of pustules and redness on the face. In addition, environmental pollution can worsen rosacea by increasing skin inflammation and oxidative stress.

Internal and hormonal factors

Internal factors, especially hormonal factors, also significantly influence rosacea flare-ups. Hormonal changes related to menopause or menstrual cycles can increase the frequency and severity of flare-ups. This is because hormonal fluctuations affect blood circulation and inflammation of the skin, causing redness and the appearance of pustules on the face.

In addition to hormonal factors, emotional stress is an important trigger. Stress causes the release of chemicals in the body that inflame the skin and increase the visibility of blood vessels. Other internal factors, such as alcohol consumption, can worsen rosacea symptoms due to its vasodilator effect, which increases blood flow to the facial skin. Spicy foods and hot drinks, such as coffee, can also trigger redness and sensitivity. 

How to care for a face with rosacea

Caring for a face with rosacea requires a specific daily routine that calms the skin, reduces redness and prevents future flare-ups. 

Cleansing and moisturising routine for a face with rosacea

Proper cleansing is the first step in caring for a face with rosacea. It is essential to use gentle cleansers formulated for sensitive skin that do not contain alcohol, fragrances or exfoliating agents. Avoiding the use of hot water is also important, as heat can dilate blood vessels and increase redness. Instead, it is recommended to use lukewarm water to wash the face and gently pat it dry, avoiding rubbing the skin.

After cleansing, you should apply a moisturiser specifically for rosacea skin to help restore the skin barrier and protect the skin from external irritants. These creams often contain ingredients such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, which soothe inflammation and keep the skin hydrated.

We recommend you try the Silicium Rosa Mosqueta fluid cream, which deeply moisturises and provides radiance. For younger looking skin, be sure to try the firming Silicium Serum + Essential Elixir pack with lifting effect, which ensures skin regeneration and activates cell renewal.

Sun protection and preventive care

Sun protection is one of the cornerstones of care for a face with rosacea. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can aggravate redness and cause flare-ups, so daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential. It is advisable to opt for formulas that do not contain fragrances or irritants and are specifically designed for sensitive skin or skin with rosacea. Hats and sunglasses are also beneficial to protect the skin from direct sun exposure.

In addition to sun protection, it is important to avoid factors that can aggravate rosacea, such as sudden changes in temperature. People with rosacea should try to stay in moderate temperature environments, as both extreme cold and intense heat can trigger flare-ups.

Other preventive care includes avoiding cosmetic products with harsh ingredients, such as alcohol or fragrances, and opting for hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic make-up. Maintaining a consistent routine tailored to the needs of rosacea skin is key to preventing future flare-ups and maintaining a more balanced and healthy skin.

Keeping a rosacea face under control: final tips and long-term care

Having rosacea on the face means adopting a daily routine that keeps the skin protected and soothed, avoiding factors that can trigger flare-ups. In the long term, do not underestimate the importance of using gentle products specifically formulated for sensitive skin and applying sun protection on a daily basis.

In addition, it is vital to identify personal triggers, such as food or stress. This will help to avoid severe episodes.

Don’t forget to visit your dermatologist regularly either, as rosacea can change over time and require treatment adjustments. Finally, don’t forget to take care of your emotional health, as living with rosacea can affect your self-esteem. The good news is that, with the right strategies, you can keep symptoms under control and improve both your skin and your quality of life.