Rosacea is a common, chronic, non‑contagious inflammatory skin disorder that mainly affects the central face (cheeks, nose, forehead, chin). It is characterized by persistent or recurrent redness (erythema), flushing, visible small blood vessels (telangiectasia), and sometimes acne‑like papules and pustules, swelling, burning or stinging sensations, and skin thickening (especially of the nose, called rhinophyma). Ocular rosacea can involve the eyes, causing dryness, irritation, redness, light sensitivity, and a gritty feeling.

The exact cause is unknown, but genetic predisposition, immune system dysregulation, vascular abnormalities, and environmental triggers (sun, heat, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, certain cosmetics or medications) are thought to contribute. Diagnosis is clinical, based on typical facial patterns and key features such as fixed centrofacial erythema, flushing, papules/pustules, telangiectasia, and ocular signs; biopsy is rarely needed. There is no cure, but symptoms can be controlled with trigger avoidance, gentle skin care, topical and oral anti‑inflammatory or vasoconstrictive medications, laser/light therapy for vessels and thickened skin, and specific treatments for eye involvement. Rosacea most often starts in adulthood (30–60 years), is more frequently reported in women and people with lighter skin, and can significantly affect quality of life due to appearance and discomfort.

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