Rosacea is a chronic skin condition in which the facial skin appears red. Small red bumps filled with what looks like pus may accompany the skin redness. For this reason, rosacea is sometimes referred to as "adult acne." However, acne and rosacea are separate skin conditions.

Rosacea usually begins in middle age, but it can also affect young adults. People from 30 to 60 years old are most commonly affected. Although women are more often diagnosed with the condition, men are more likely to show severe symptoms. Rosacea is more common in individuals with fair skin, especially people of Irish and Northern European descent.

Without treatment, rosacea can get worse over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent this from happening. Rosacea does not endanger a person's physical health, but it is a chronic (ongoing) condition and there is currently no known cure for it.

It is not known what causes rosacea. Genetics likely play a role. Alcohol is not a cause. Drinking alcohol may simply cause flushing of the skin in people who already have the condition. Diet does not appear to affect rosacea, but some medications may worsen the condition.

Scientists also point towards other potential factors that may include skin mites, gastrointestinal infection, blood vessel disorders, and sun damage of the skin. These and other theories are still under investigation.

Symptoms of rosacea include:

• enlarged nose and cheek tissue
• flushing of the face (skin may appear red or sunburned – the flushing comes and goes at first, but lasts longer if rosacea gets worse)
• grittiness or burning sensation in the eyes
• red bumps with pus-like areas of the nose, cheeks, forehead, or chin
• small but visible blood vessels on the face
• stinging sensation during flare-ups

The grittiness of the eyes is also known as ocular rosacea. Approximately 50% of individuals with rosacea also suffer from this condition.

There is no test for rosacea. Your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your symptoms in order to determine whether you have rosacea.