Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that usually affects the face (particularly the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead), leading to redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. 

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Patients often come to us with various questions about their rosacea symptoms and to understand whether what they are experiencing is normal. We’ve got the answer to some of the most common questions on rosacea symptoms:

Does rosacea itch?

Itching is not usually the most common symptom of rosacea, but it can be for some, especially in the more severe subtypes or during flare-ups. The itching sensation is usually mild compared to other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, but when rosacea is itchy, it can bring about other symptoms such as dryness, tightness, and a feeling of irritation on the skin.

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The main reason why rosacea itches is because of inflammation. The condition leads to the dilation of small blood vessels in the face (known as spider veins), causing redness and swelling. This inflammation can irritate the nerve endings in the skin, leading to an itching sensation. The skin barrier in rosacea patients is often slightly damaged, making the skin more sensitive and prone to dryness, which can also contribute to the itching.

Does rosacea burn?

Many patients with rosacea report a burning sensation on their skin which is usually linked to the inflammation caused by the condition. The dilated blood vessels and increased blood flow to the face can lead to a sensation of heat or burning which can be particularly distressing, and is often triggered by various factors, such as exposure to sunlight, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and extreme temperatures.

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The burning sensation in rosacea can vary from mild to severe and may happen alongside redness and swelling. It is often worse during flare-ups, meaning it is best to understand the triggers in order to manage the symptoms effectively.

Does rosacea feel hot?

Another very common symptom of rosacea is a feeling of warmth or heat in the affected areas. This sensation is similar to burning but can be described as a more general feeling of heat rather than a sharp, painful burn. The warmth is due to increased blood flow and the dilation of blood vessels close to the skin's surface, which can make the skin feel hot to the touch and is often associated with the characteristic redness of rosacea.

Other symptoms of rosacea

Rosacea is a relapsing condition, meaning it can go through periods which are worse than others. Symptoms can vary in severity and combination from one person to another, but some of the most common symptoms include:

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• Facial redness - Persistent redness in the central part of the face.
• Visible blood vessels - Tiny blood vessels become visible on the skin, known as telangiectasia or spider veins.
• Bumps and pimples - Acne-like breakouts can occur, sometimes with pus-filled bumps.
• Irritated eyes - Eyes can become dry, irritated, and swollen; a condition known as ocular rosacea.
• Swollen nose - In severe cases, especially in men, the nose may become swollen and bulbous (rhinophyma).

Treating spider veins with rosacea

For patients with rosacea who also suffer from spider veins, we offer advanced treatments like thermocoagulation (Veinwave) and micro sclerotherapy which helps to reduce some of the burning and itching sensation caused by spider veins.

Thermocoagulation (Veinwave)

Thermocoagulation, commonly known as Veinwave, is a non-invasive treatment specifically designed to target spider veins that uses high-frequency microwave energy to heat and close off the affected blood vessels. This process is quick and relatively painless, with minimal downtime. The procedure involves using a fine needle to deliver the microwave energy precisely to the spider veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade from view. Veinwave is particularly effective for smaller veins and can be used on sensitive areas of the face affected by rosacea.

Micro sclerotherapy

Micro sclerotherapy is another effective treatment for spider veins, especially those that are slightly larger. This procedure involves injecting a sclerosant solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body over time. Micro sclerotherapy is typically used for veins on the legs but can be adapted for facial veins in certain cases. The treatment is relatively quick and involves minimal discomfort, though multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal results.

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Rosacea is a complex condition that can cause itching, burning, and a sensation of heat, but managing the underlying symptoms can be helpful. This may include topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and redness, lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers, and the use of gentle skin care products to maintain the skin barrier. By addressing both the symptoms of rosacea and the cosmetic concerns of spider veins, patients can achieve relief and improve their skin's appearance. If you are struggling with rosacea and spider veins, consider getting in touch with our experts at Dr Newmans Clinic to explore the best treatment options for you.

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Schedule a primary appointment with us today

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