Rosacea treatment in Sussex

Consultant-led diagnosis and treatment for rosacea, a chronic facial skin condition.

Consultation time

30 to 45 minutes

Treated by

Consultant dermatologists

Treatment options

Multiple modalities

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the central face — particularly the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It typically appears between the ages of 30 and 50, and is more common in women, though men can develop more severe forms.

Rosacea presents differently from person to person but common features include facial flushing (persistent or transient redness, often the earliest sign), visible blood vessels on the cheeks and nose, bumps and pimples (small red bumps and pus-filled spots that can resemble acne but without blackheads), burning or stinging sensations, skin thickening (in advanced cases, particularly on the nose, called rhinophyma), and ocular involvement (eye irritation, dryness, or sensitivity).

Rosacea is often confused with acne, eczema, or general skin sensitivity, which is why accurate diagnosis matters. Left untreated, it can worsen over time.

How we diagnose rosacea

Rosacea is diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic facial flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels. We assess severity, identify triggers, and rule out other conditions like acne or eczema.

How we treat rosacea

While there is no cure for rosacea, treatment can effectively control symptoms and prevent progression. Treatment approaches vary depending on severity and type:

Topical treatments: Metronidazole cream or gel (reduces redness and inflammation), Ivermectin cream (targets underlying inflammation and clears papules and pustules), Azelaic acid (reduces inflammation and helps with redness and bumps), Brimonidine (temporarily reduces facial redness by constricting blood vessels)

Oral medications: Low-dose doxycycline (used as an anti-inflammatory specifically licensed for rosacea), Isotretinoin (for severe, treatment-resistant rosacea)

Lifestyle and skincare: Daily sunscreen (SPF 30+, broad spectrum) — essential, Gentle, fragrance-free skincare, Trigger avoidance

For visible blood vessels and persistent redness: Laser and IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments are highly effective but are typically referred onwards as these aren't services we provide in-clinic.

Consultants who treat rosacea

✓ GMC 4650069

Dr Paul Farrant

Consultant Dermatologist

Clinical lead and globally recognised consultant dermatologist with over 25 years of experience specialising in skin cancer, trichology, and hair and scalp disorders.

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