Rosacea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Rosacea?
Most rosacea care comes from a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin conditions. A primary care doctor can often start treatment and refer you if needed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face. It causes redness, small bumps, and sometimes visible blood vessels. It is not contagious, which means you cannot catch it from or give it to another person. Most people who have it are adults. It often comes and goes in waves.
Symptoms
The most common sign is redness on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Some people get small bumps that can look like acne. The skin may feel warm, sting, or burn, and blood vessels near the surface can become visible. Some people also have dry, irritated eyes.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not know the exact cause, but it seems to involve a mix of genes, the immune system, and the environment. It is more common in fair-skinned people and in women, and usually shows up after age 30.
Common triggers for flare-ups include sunlight, hot drinks, spicy food, alcohol, extreme heat or cold, and stress. Triggers differ from person to person, so many people keep notes to find their own pattern.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no single test. A doctor looks at the skin and asks about symptoms and triggers, and may need to rule out conditions like acne, lupus, or an allergic reaction, which can look similar.
Treatment
Rosacea cannot be cured, but treatment usually helps control it. Doctors often prescribe creams or gels that reduce redness or calm the bumps, and some people take antibiotic pills that lower skin inflammation. Laser or light therapy can shrink visible blood vessels for some patients.
Daily habits matter too: use a gentle cleanser, wear sunscreen, and avoid known triggers.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have lasting facial redness, bumps, burning, or visible blood vessels. Early treatment may keep symptoms from getting worse. Also see a doctor if your eyes feel dry or irritated, or if the condition makes you feel anxious or embarrassed.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance and often has longer visits, which helps when discussing triggers and skin care. A concierge doctor works similarly but usually costs more. Either type can prescribe common rosacea medicines and manage mild to moderate cases, referring severe cases to a dermatologist.
Common questions
Is rosacea the same as acne?
No. Rosacea can cause bumps that look like acne, but the two conditions are different. Acne treatments can sometimes irritate rosacea, so it helps to get the right diagnosis first.
Can rosacea go away on its own?
Rosacea is a long-term condition, and it usually does not go away without treatment. Symptoms often come and go. Treatment can keep them under better control.
Does drinking alcohol cause rosacea?
Alcohol does not cause rosacea, but it can trigger flare-ups in many people. Other common triggers include sun, heat, and spicy food.
Can rosacea affect my eyes?
Yes. Some people develop dry, red, or irritated eyes. Tell your doctor if this happens, because eye symptoms may need their own treatment.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
