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    • Services and providers for Rosacea in the U.S.
  • National Institutes of Health

Also called: Acne rosacea

Rosacea is a long-term disease that affects your skin and sometimes your eyes. It causes redness and pimples. Rosacea is most common in women and people with fair skin. It usually starts between age 30 and 60.

In most cases, rosacea only affects the face. Symptoms can include

  • Frequent redness of the face, or flushing
  • Small, red lines under the skin
  • Acne
  • A swollen nose
  • Thick skin, usually on the forehead, chin and cheeks
  • Red, dry, itchy eyes and sometimes vision problems

No one knows what causes rosacea. You may be more likely to have it if you blush a lot or if rosacea runs in your family. Rosacea is not dangerous. It can be treated with medications and sometimes surgery.

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

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