Rosacea
Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition causing persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps across the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It often worsens in the sun and heat — making Portugal and Spain challenging climates for those affected. With the right treatment and trigger management, symptoms can be very well controlled.
Speak to an English-speaking dermatologist about your rosacea. No referral needed.
Book NowAppointments available within 24 hours
Already on rosacea treatment? Renew your existing prescription online quickly and conveniently.
Request PrescriptionReviewed by a licensed doctor
This page provides general health information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the face. It begins with a tendency to flush or blush easily, progressing over time to persistent redness, visible small blood vessels (telangiectasia), and in some people, inflammatory papules and pustules resembling acne. In its more severe forms it can cause thickening of the nose skin (rhinophyma) and eye involvement (ocular rosacea).
Rosacea is particularly common in people with fair skin living in sunny climates, making it a significant concern for northern European expats in Portugal and Spain. Sun exposure is one of the most potent triggers and daily SPF is an essential part of management.
Types of rosacea
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea — persistent central facial redness and visible blood vessels; flushing and burning
- Papulopustular rosacea — redness with acne-like breakouts; often confused with acne vulgaris
- Phymatous rosacea — skin thickening and enlargement, most commonly of the nose (rhinophyma)
- Ocular rosacea — red, irritated, watery eyes; often accompanies other subtypes and can affect vision if untreated
Common triggers
- Sun exposure — the most significant trigger in Mediterranean climates
- Heat — hot weather, hot drinks, saunas, and hot showers
- Alcohol — particularly red wine
- Spicy food
- Exercise — vigorous physical activity and overheating
- Stress and emotional flushing
- Certain skincare products — alcohol-based or fragranced products that irritate sensitive rosacea skin
- Demodex mites — an overgrowth of skin mites is associated with rosacea flares
If you've moved to Portugal or Spain from a cooler climate and your skin has worsened significantly, rosacea is a common reason. Daily factor 50 sunscreen is the single most effective lifestyle intervention.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have persistent facial redness, visible broken blood vessels, or papules that are not responding to skincare changes. Correct diagnosis is important — rosacea is commonly mistaken for acne, eczema, or lupus, and the wrong treatment can worsen symptoms.
Speak to an English-speaking doctor today
No referral, no waiting room. Online consultations available within 24 hours.
Treatment options
- Daily SPF 50 sunscreen — essential for all rosacea patients; prevents UV-triggered flares
- Topical azelaic acid — reduces redness and papules; well tolerated for rosacea skin
- Topical metronidazole — anti-inflammatory gel for papulopustular rosacea
- Topical brimonidine or oxymetazoline — reduce persistent redness by constricting blood vessels
- Oral doxycycline — anti-inflammatory dose for moderate papulopustular rosacea
- Ivermectin cream — highly effective for demodex-associated rosacea
- Laser and IPL therapy — for persistent telangiectasia and background redness; requires referral
- Trigger identification and avoidance — a personalised trigger diary helps identify and reduce flares
How eMedClinic can help
Our dermatologists diagnose rosacea, prescribe appropriate topical and oral treatments, and provide personalised trigger management advice — including guidance on managing rosacea in the Portuguese and Spanish climate. We also advise on suitable skincare routines for sensitive rosacea skin.
Ready to speak to a doctor?
English-speaking specialists online. No referral, no waiting room.