Rosacea causes arange ofsymptoms, although not everyone will experience them all.

Most people with rosacea have periods when their symptoms are particularly troublesome, followed by periodswhen their symptoms are less so.

The main symptoms of rosacea include:

  • flushing
  • persistent facial redness
  • visible blood vessels
  • papules and pustules
  • thickened skin

These are discussed in more detail below.

Other symptoms associated with rosacea include:

  • sensitive skin burning, itching, stinging andpain
  • dry, rough skin
  • raised red patches (plaques) on your skin
  • facial swelling (lymphoedema)



Flushing is when your skin turns red for a short period usually a few minutes. It tends to mainly affect the face, although it can spread to your neck and chest.


In rosacea flushingis often caused by a certain trigger, such as sun exposure, hot drinks or exercise. See causes of rosacea for more information about possible triggers.

Persistent facial redness

Persistent facial redness (erythema) islikea blush or a patch of sunburn that doesn't go away, or the sort of blotchy skin often associated with drinking too much alcohol.



Visible blood vessels


Papules and pustules



In rosacea there are no blackheadsandthe skin is not greasy, but dry and peeling. Rosacea spots also don't cause scarring.

Thickened skin


Rhinophyma is an uncommon,severesymptom of rosacea and takes several years to develop. Italmost exclusively affects men.


Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 31 Aug 2016