Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and in some cases, bumps and pimples on the face. The condition most often affects the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin — and is not contagious. Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be effectively kept under control with proper care and lifestyle changes.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of the skin on the face. The disease manifests as redness, which is most often concentrated around the center of the face. Rosacea causes an uncomfortable stinging and pricking sensation in the skin. In severe cases, bumps and pimples can appear on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin — and even inflammation in the eyes. If left untreated, the condition will often worsen over time, making it important to tackle this disease.
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is believed that the disease is due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In addition, Demodex mites are also suspected to be part of the cause of rosacea. It has been observed several times that people with rosacea also have a higher amount of Demodex mites in their skin than others — and a 2024 study found Demodex mites in as many as 80% of rosacea patients compared to only 20% in the control group.
Although there is no scientific evidence for the precise cause of rosacea, there are nevertheless a number of factors that can worsen the symptoms:
- Sunlight
- Spicy (hot) food
- Alcohol
- Extreme temperatures
- Hot food and hot drinks
- Prolonged use of steroid cream
- Medication that dilates blood vessels; including medication for high blood pressure
What you should avoid with rosacea
For many with rosacea, what they stop doing is just as crucial as what they start doing. Here are the most common mistakes that keep the disease 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 can temporarily reduce redness, a strong rebound reaction often occurs when you stop. The result is skin that is more sensitive and harder to treat than before. Avoid steroid creams on the face unless a dermatologist specifically prescribes it.
2. Heavily fragranced products and alcohol-based toners
Fragrance is one of the most frequent irritants for sensitive skin with rosacea. This applies to both synthetic and natural fragrances — rose extract and essential oils can trigger redness just like artificial scents. Alcohol-based toners and facial sprays dry out the skin and further weaken the skin barrier. Choose products labeled "fragrance-free" and "for sensitive skin".
3. Sun without SPF protection
UV radiation is one of the most well-known and documented triggers for rosacea. Sunlight dilates blood vessels in the skin and can trigger a flare-up that lasts for days. Use daily sun protection with a minimum of 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 rosacea-prone skin. Physical rubbing activates the inflammatory response and intensifies redness. Switch to gentle, chemical cleansing and avoid anything that "scrubs" — the skin needs rest, not friction.
5. Too many active ingredients at once
It's tempting to try many products — but rosacea-prone skin reacts quickly to overload. Never introduce more than one new product at a time, and wait at least 1-2 weeks between each change. Always do a patch test on a small patch of skin behind the ear before trying anything new.
ZZ-Cream — against rosacea from the root
Zinc oxide and sulfur reduce active inflammation and fight Demodex mites. Used by thousands of Danes with rosacea.
Try the ZZ-Cream →Best remedies for rosacea
What helps and alleviates rosacea outbreaks varies widely from person to person. However, an incredible number of people have found great help in ZZ-Cream, as it actively kills Demodex mites (hair follicle mites). An overpopulation of hair follicle mites in the skin is believed, according to several studies, 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 nasal skin 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 have perioral dermatitis concurrently with 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 among the best creams available on the market for treating rosacea, and these are found in the product's ingredients. ZZ-Cream contains a number of ingredients that can have a positive effect on rosacea.
1) Zinc oxide and sulfur can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the skin.
2) Glycerin and wheat germ oil can help keep the skin hydrated and protect against further damage.
3) Salicylic acid can help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can reduce the density of redness and bumps.
In addition, Chinese herbs can also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of rosacea. China is known for utilizing natural herbs for the healing of a wide range of diseases and ailments, 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 manage well with a consistent home care routine — but there are cases where it is wise to seek professional help:
- Symptoms worsen significantly despite changes in routine and removal of known triggers
- You experience eye symptoms — red, irritated, watery, or light-sensitive eyes (ocular rosacea) require ophthalmological evaluation
- The skin on the nose begins 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 noticeable effect — a dermatologist can prescribe metronidazole, azelaic acid, or oral doxycycline
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment — certain remedies 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 shorter course of oral antibiotics (doxycycline) can significantly reduce inflammation — and laser therapies can effectively treat visible blood vessels and persistent redness.
Frequently asked questions about rosacea
Can rosacea be permanently cured?
Rosacea cannot be cured in the true sense of the word — but it can be kept very effectively under control. Most people with rosacea experience periods of almost symptom-free skin when 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, skin care, and lifestyle choices play a major role in how pronounced the condition becomes.
Is rosacea contagious?
No, rosacea is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person — neither by skin contact, sharing towels, or other forms of contact. The condition is solely determined 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 crucial differences. Acne is characterized by comedones — blackheads and whiteheads — which are never seen in rosacea. Rosacea also causes persistent background redness and flushing, and typically affects people from the age of 30. Acne is most common in adolescence 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 food, hot drinks, stress, and hormonal fluctuations. Many also experience triggers from cosmetic products with perfume or alcohol. A personal trigger journal — noting what you ate and did the day before a flare-up — is an effective tool to find your specific patterns.
Can diet affect rosacea?
Yes, for many with rosacea, there is a clear link with diet. Alcohol, spicy food, and hot drinks are classic triggers. Some experience improvement by reducing sugar and processed foods, while an anti-inflammatory diet — with vegetables, fish, and whole grains — can support the general condition of the skin. However, there is great 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 resembling acne), phymatous rosacea (thickening of skin tissue — most often nasal skin 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 peace?
ZZ-Cream with zinc oxide and sulfur is created for rosacea-prone skin. Mild, gentle, and well-tested against active inflammation.
See the ZZ-Cream here →References
- Sundhed.dk — Rosacea — Doctor's 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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