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Rosacea

Persistent redness, visible blood vessels, or breakouts that won't quit? Rosacea is manageable, and often mistaken for something else.

About the Condition

Rosacea is frequently misdiagnosed as acne or sensitive skin. We start by confirming what's actually causing your redness, then build a plan around your specific triggers.

Woman with facial redness from rosacea

Causes

The exact cause isn't fully understood, but rosacea is linked to blood vessel and immune system factors, genetics, and environmental triggers like sun exposure, heat, alcohol, and spicy food.

Symptoms To Watch For

  • Persistent facial redness
  • Visible blood vessels
  • Bumps or pimples resembling acne
  • Eye irritation (ocular rosacea)
  • Thickened skin, often on the nose

Who’s At Risk

Most common in fair-skinned adults ages 30 to 50, and more frequently diagnosed in women, though men often experience more severe symptoms. Family history increases risk.

When to See a Doctor: if redness is persistent (not just from heat or exercise), if you notice visible blood vessels or bumps, or if your eyes feel irritated alongside facial redness.

How We Treat It

  • Topical & Oral Medication

    Prescription treatment to calm redness and prevent flare-ups.

  • Laser & Light Treatment

    Reduce visible blood vessels and persistent redness.

  • Trigger Management Plan

    Identify and avoid what's driving your flare-ups.

Outlook & Living With It

Rosacea is a long-term condition, but most patients get it well under control by combining treatment with trigger avoidance. Many go long stretches with minimal symptoms.

“The providers at Clear Choice truly listen and take the time to create a plan that works.”
Actual Patient, Tacoma, WA

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if it's rosacea and not just sensitive skin?

A quick in-office visit can usually tell the difference: persistent redness, visible vessels, and bumps are the key signs.

Will this ever fully go away?

Rosacea is a long-term condition, but most patients get it well under control with the right plan.

What foods or drinks trigger rosacea?

Common triggers include alcohol, spicy food, hot drinks, and caffeine, though triggers vary person to person.

Is rosacea the same as acne?

No. Rosacea can look similar but is a different condition with different treatment; using acne products on rosacea can make it worse.

Can makeup make rosacea worse?

Some formulas can irritate rosacea-prone skin, but we can recommend gentler alternatives.

Does sun exposure make rosacea worse?

Yes, sun is one of the most common triggers. Daily SPF is one of the most effective things you can do.

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