What is rosacea?
Rosacea usually affects the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. Common signs include frequent flushing, persistent redness, small visible blood vessels, burning or stinging, and red bumps that can resemble acne. Some people also notice dry, irritated eyes.
Flares are often triggered by sun exposure, heat, spicy food, alcohol, hot drinks, stress and certain skincare products. Triggers differ from person to person.
When to see a dermatologist
- Redness on your face lasts for weeks or keeps coming back
- You flush easily and the flushing is becoming more frequent
- Bumps on your cheeks or nose don't respond to acne products
- Your skin burns or stings with most products
- You have eye irritation along with facial redness
How we evaluate
Your dermatologist examines the pattern of redness, vessels and bumps and asks about your triggers, skincare and medical history. Rosacea can look similar to acne, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and some autoimmune conditions, so an accurate diagnosis guides treatment.
Treatment options at DR WW Dermatology
- Prescription topicals. Anti-inflammatory creams and gels that reduce bumps and redness over time.
- Oral therapy. Low-dose oral medication for inflammatory rosacea when topical treatment alone is not enough.
- Light and laser treatments. Vascular laser or light-based treatments may reduce persistent redness and visible vessels. Availability varies by office.
- Trigger and skincare guidance. A gentle routine, daily sun protection and a practical plan for avoiding your personal triggers.
Not every option suits every patient, and availability of specific devices varies by office. Your dermatologist will recommend a plan after an in-person evaluation.
What to expect: treatment, recovery and aftercare
Medical treatment typically shows improvement over several weeks. Laser or light treatments for redness usually require a series of sessions spaced weeks apart, with temporary redness or swelling afterward. Because rosacea is chronic, most patients continue a maintenance routine to keep flares under control.
Frequently asked questions
Is rosacea the same as acne?
No. Rosacea can cause acne-like bumps, but it is a different condition with different triggers and treatments. Some acne products can make rosacea worse.
Can rosacea go away on its own?
Rosacea tends to come and go but usually persists without treatment. Medical care and trigger management can keep it well controlled.
Do lasers help rosacea?
Laser and light treatments can reduce persistent redness and visible blood vessels for many patients. Your dermatologist will advise whether you are a good candidate.
