SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 12, 2025 – As April marks Rosacea Awareness Month, more and more people are stepping forward to share their experiences with this frustrating skin condition—and they're not alone. With UK Google searches for "what causes rosacea to flare up" skyrocketing by 5,000% in just one week, it's clear that curiosity and concern are on the rise.
If you've ever blushed a bit too hard and had the redness linger, or found yourself battling unexplained breakouts and sensitivity, you may be among the millions navigating rosacea. Though it can start at any age, it's most common in women aged 30–60 and often goes undiagnosed—especially in people with darker skin tones. But understanding rosacea is the first step toward finding comfort, confidence, and control.
Recognizing the Signs: Is It Rosacea or Something Else?
Rosacea doesn’t always look the same from person to person, which is why it’s often mistaken for acne, eczema, or even an allergic reaction. Dr. Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Self London, explains:
“Redness, flushing, sensitive skin, acne-type spots and prominent blood vessels, or thread veins can all be associated with rosacea. The key thing to recognise is that not everyone with rosacea will have every single one of the features.”
Dr. Daron Seukeran, Group Medical Director at sk:n clinics, adds that the four major symptoms are:
- Persistent facial flushing (especially on cheeks and nose)
- Visible blood vessels or thread veins
- Red, pus-filled spots (often mistaken for acne)
- Thickened or bumpy skin
On Black and brown skin, rosacea may appear as a purple, dusky brown, or violet tint rather than bright red, which contributes to frequent misdiagnosis. Dr. Mahto notes: “It is more commonly diagnosed in individuals with light skin... However, rosacea can also occur in darker skin tones, though it may be under diagnosed.”
What Triggers Rosacea and Why It’s So Unpredictable
Although science hasn't pinpointed a single cause, several environmental and lifestyle triggers are known to provoke flare-ups:
- Hot or spicy foods
- Alcohol consumption
- Sudden changes in temperature
- Stress and emotional upheaval
- Intense exercise
Dr. Mazin Al-Khafaji, founder of Dermatology M, states:
“Rosacea can also be rather erratic, with skin remaining ‘normal’ for some time, before unpredictable flare-ups are triggered, lasting weeks or even months.”
These triggers can make managing rosacea feel like a game of trial and error—but small daily choices can make a big difference.
Daily Habits to Help You Take Back Control
While there's no permanent cure, many find relief through gentle skincare and lifestyle adjustments. Dr. Mahto suggests:
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen daily, especially mineral-based ones.
- Avoid skincare products with acids and retinol.
- Look for non-comedogenic and oil-free moisturizers.
- Be consistent with a gentle, calming routine.
“Over 80% of those who suffer with rosacea will find their facial redness is driven by UV light,” Dr. Mahto emphasizes. That makes daily sun protection a must—not just for beauty, but for comfort.
Living with Rosacea: From Awareness to Empowerment
Rosacea isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can impact self-confidence and emotional wellbeing. For many, redness and flare-ups lead to anxiety and social discomfort. But awareness and open conversations are shifting the narrative.
From TikTok creators like @talontedlex to everyday folks sharing bare-faced selfies, a growing online community is showing that living with rosacea doesn’t mean hiding. Whether you’re seeking diagnosis, treatment options, or simply reassurance, remember—you’re not alone.
Ready to take control of your skin? Learn more at https://www.rosacea.org