Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness, visible blood vessels, flushing, and sometimes acne-like bumps on the face. It can affect confidence and quality of life, especially since symptoms often flare unpredictably. Rosacea is a chronic condition, but with the right treatment it can be well controlled. DermLab’s Dermatologists in Hamilton, Waikato provide specialist Rosacea diagnosis and tailored treatment, helping patients manage symptoms and reduce flares.

Common Triggers

  • Sun exposure

  • Hot drinks and spicy food

  • Alcohol

  • Stress and emotional changes

  • Temperature extremes (hot or cold weather)

  • Some skincare or steroid creams

Signs & Symptoms of Rosacea

  • Persistent facial redness (often on the cheeks, nose, and chin)

  • Visible small blood vessels (telangiectasia)

  • Flushing that worsens with heat, alcohol, spicy food, or stress

  • Red bumps and pustules that look like acne

  • Eye irritation in some cases (ocular rosacea)

  • Rhinophyma —thickening and enlargement of the skin on the nose, more common in men, which can cause disfigurement if untreated

Treatment Options

  • Topical therapies — prescription gels or creams to reduce redness and inflammation

  • Oral medications — antibiotics or low-dose isotretinoin for resistant cases

  • Laser treatments (vascular & CO₂ laser) — to reduce redness, visible blood vessels, and early rhinophyma

  • Surgical options —for advanced rhinophyma, including laser reshaping to restore the nose’s natural contour

  • Skincare guidance — advice on gentle, non-irritating cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens

  • Trigger management — practical strategies to reduce flare frequency

Frequently Asked Questions

  • There’s no permanent cure, but effective treatment can greatly reduce symptoms and flare frequency.

  • Not necessarily. With proper treatment, rosacea can remain well controlled for years.

  • Yes. Early cases respond to laser, while advanced rhinophyma can be improved with surgical reshaping by a Dermatologist.

A blurred silhouette of a person standing in front of a wall with what appears to be a painting or photograph of a woman's face.
A black background with white dots arranged in a spiral pattern.

Request a Consultation

We know skin, and want you to be comfortable in yours. Let’s discuss your concerns and how to reclaim health and confidence.