Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels and, in some cases, bumps and pimples on the face. It most often affects the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin—and is not contagious. Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed with the right skincare and lifestyle changes.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the skin on the face. It appears as redness, most often concentrated in the center of the face. Rosacea causes an uncomfortable stinging and tingling sensation in the skin. In severe cases, bumps and pimples may develop on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin—and even inflammation in the eyes. If left untreated, the condition will usually worsen over time, which is why it is important to address it.
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but the condition is believed to result from a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Demodex mites are also suspected of playing a role in rosacea. People with rosacea have often been found to have a higher number of Demodex mites on their skin than others—and a 2024 study found Demodex mites in 80% of rosacea patients, compared with just 20% of the control group.
Although there is no scientific evidence for the exact cause of rosacea, there are a number of factors that can worsen its symptoms:
- Sunlight
- Spicy food
- Alcohol
- Extreme temperatures
- Hot food and hot drinks
- Prolonged use of steroid creams
- Medications that dilate blood vessels, including medications for high blood pressure
What to avoid if you have rosacea
For many people with rosacea, what they stop using is just as important as what they start using. Here are the most common mistakes that keep the condition going—even among those who otherwise take good care of their skin:
1. Steroid creams on the face
Corticosteroids have already been mentioned as one of the known triggers—and for good reason. Although a steroid cream may temporarily reduce redness, a severe rebound reaction often occurs when you stop using it. The result is skin that is more sensitive and harder to treat than before. Avoid using steroid creams on your face unless specifically prescribed by a dermatologist.
2. Highly fragranced products and alcohol-based toners
Fragrance is one of the most common irritants for sensitive skin with rosacea. This includes both synthetic and natural fragrance — rose extract and essential oils can trigger redness just like artificial fragrances. Alcohol-based toners and facial mists dry out the skin and further weaken the skin barrier. Choose products labeled “fragrance-free” and “for sensitive skin.”
3. Sun exposure without SPF protection
UV radiation is one of the most widely recognized and well-documented rosacea triggers. Sunlight dilates the blood vessels in the skin and can trigger a flare-up that lasts for days. Use daily sun protection of at least SPF 30 — preferably SPF 50 — as a non-negotiable part of your morning routine, even on cloudy days and in winter.
4. Aggressive scrubs and physical exfoliation
Scrubs, washcloths, and electric facial cleansers are too harsh for sensitive skin with rosacea. Physical rubbing activates the inflammatory response and worsens redness. Switch to gentle, chemical cleansing and avoid anything that “scrubs” — your skin needs calm, not friction.
5. Too many active ingredients at once
It’s tempting to try lots of products — but rosacea-prone skin reacts quickly to overloading. Never introduce more than one new product at a time, and wait at least 1-2 weeks between each change. Always patch test on a small area of skin behind the ear before trying anything new.
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What helps and calms rosacea flare-ups varies greatly from person to person. However, many people have found great relief with zz-cream, as it actively kills Demodex mites (hair follicle mites). According to several studies, an overpopulation of hair follicle mites in the skin is believed to be directly linked to the occurrence of rosacea.
Rosacea is clinically divided into four subtypes: erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (persistent redness and visible blood vessels), papulopustular rosacea (bumps and pimples), phymatous rosacea (thickening of the skin — especially the skin on the nose in men), and ocular rosacea (eye inflammation). ZZ-Cream is particularly relevant for the first two subtypes, where active inflammation and Demodex activity are typically most pronounced. If you also have perioral dermatitis alongside your rosacea, ZZ-Cream is also effective against both conditions.
Why zz-cream is the best product for rosacea:
Here are 3 reasons why we believe zz-cream is one of the best creams for treating rosacea on the market, and they can be found in the product’s ingredients. zz-cream contains a range of ingredients that may have a positive effect on rosacea.
1) Zinc oxide and sulfur can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation.
2) Glycerin and wheat germ oil can help keep the skin hydrated and protect it from further damage.
3) Salicylic acid can help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which may reduce the severity of redness and bumps.
In addition, Chinese herbs may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of rosacea. China is known for using natural herbs to treat a wide range of diseases and conditions, and some combinations of the country’s natural remedies date back thousands of years.
When should you see a doctor for rosacea?
Many people with rosacea do well with a consistent home skincare routine — but there are cases where it is wise to seek professional help:
- Your symptoms are getting significantly worse despite changing your routine and removing known triggers
- You have eye symptoms — red, irritated, watery, or light-sensitive eyes (ocular rosacea) require an ophthalmological assessment
- The skin on your nose is beginning to thicken (rhinophyma) — this is a serious subtype that is best treated early
- You have tried over-the-counter products for 6-8 weeks without a clear effect — a dermatologist can prescribe metronidazole, azelaic acid, or oral doxycycline
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment — some products are not suitable
A dermatologist will typically start with topical treatments such as metronidazole gel or ivermectin cream. In more severe cases with many bumps and pustules, a short course of oral antibiotics (doxycycline) can significantly reduce inflammation — and laser treatments can effectively treat visible blood vessels and persistent redness.
Frequently asked questions about rosacea
Can rosacea be cured permanently?
Rosacea cannot be cured in the true sense of the word — but it can be managed very effectively. Most people with rosacea experience periods when their skin is nearly symptom-free once they find the right routine and learn to avoid their personal triggers. The goal is not a cure, but control and quality of life.
Is rosacea hereditary?
Yes, there is a hereditary component. Research suggests that rosacea runs in families and that genetic predisposition increases the risk of developing the condition. But genetics are not destiny — environmental factors, skincare, and lifestyle choices play a major role in how severe the condition becomes.
Is rosacea contagious?
No, rosacea is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person — through skin contact, sharing towels, or any other form of contact. The condition is caused solely by internal factors and individual triggers.
What is the difference between rosacea and acne?
Both cause bumps and redness on the face, but there are key differences. Acne is characterized by comedones — blackheads and whiteheads — which are never seen with rosacea. Rosacea also causes persistent background redness and flushing, and typically affects people from their 30s onward. Acne is most common during the teenage years and on the chest and back.
What typically triggers a rosacea flare-up?
The most common triggers are sunlight and heat, alcohol (especially red wine), spicy foods, hot drinks, stress, and hormonal fluctuations. Many people also find that cosmetics containing fragrance or alcohol trigger symptoms. Keeping a personal trigger diary — noting what you ate and did the day before a flare-up — is an effective way to identify your specific patterns.
Can diet affect rosacea?
Yes, for many people with rosacea, there is a clear link with diet. Alcohol, spicy foods, and hot drinks are classic triggers. Some people notice improvement when they reduce sugar and processed foods, while an anti-inflammatory diet — with vegetables, fish, and whole grains — may support overall skin health. However, there is considerable individual variation.
What are the four types of rosacea?
Rosacea is clinically divided into four subtypes: erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (persistent redness and visible blood vessels), papulopustular rosacea (bumps and pimples that resemble acne), phymatous rosacea (thickening of the skin tissue — most often on the nose in men), and ocular rosacea (irritation and inflammation of the eyes). The first two subtypes are by far the most common.
Ready to give your skin some relief?
Redness Relieving Cream with zinc oxide and sulfur is formulated for rosacea-prone skin. Gentle, mild, and well-tested against active inflammation.
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- Sundhed.dk — Rosacea — The Medical Handbook. Danish Health Authority.
- Gether L et al. — Detection of Demodex mites in papulopustular rosacea: a comparative case-control study (2024). PubMed PMID: 39042262.
- Tatu AL, Nadasdy T — Evidence for the Clinical Association between Demodex and Rosacea: A Review (2024). Dermatology, Karger Publishers.
- Tanghetti E et al. — Papulopustular Rosacea Treated With Ivermectin 1% Cream: Remission of Demodex Mite Infestation (2022). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- American Academy of Dermatology — Rosacea: Diagnosis and treatment. AAD.org.
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