Rosacea is a common, chronic condition causing facial redness, flushing, visible vessels and, in some people, acne-like bumps or eye irritation. It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled very well with trigger management, gentle skincare and the right medical treatment. Consistency keeps the skin calm.
Know and manage your triggers
Rosacea flares are driven by things that make you flush. Keeping a short diary helps you find yours. Common triggers include:
• Sun and heat (the biggest for most people)
• Alcohol, especially red wine
• Hot drinks and spicy food
• Extremes of temperature, exercise heat, saunas
• Emotional stress
• Harsh or fragranced skincare
Gentle skincare foundation
• A mild, fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser — lukewarm water, never hot.
• A simple fragrance-free moisturiser to support the barrier.
• Broad-spectrum SPF50, ideally a mineral (zinc/titanium) formula, every day — the single most useful step.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners, scrubs, and strong actives; introduce any new active slowly.
Medical treatments that work
Depending on your type of rosacea, Dr Kim may recommend prescription creams for bumps and redness, a short course of oral medication for more persistent cases, or laser/IPL to reduce visible vessels and lasting redness. Treatment is tailored to your skin during your consultation and works best alongside sun protection and trigger control.