When to See a Dermatologist

Do you have any of the following signs or symptoms?

• Tendency to blush frequently or easily

• Noticeable flushing when you consume hot drinks, spicy foods or alcoholic beverages

• A redness or flushing that is more pronounced during extreme hot and extreme cold weather

• Extreme sensitivity when hairspray touches your face or when you use certain facial products, such as soap, moisturizers or cosmetics

• Persistent redness in the center of your face that has gradually involved the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. Your ears, chest and back may also be affected.

• Visible tiny blood vessels and pimples, without blackheads, on or around a reddened area on your face

These are all early indications of rosacea. When it first develops, rosacea may come and go on its own, and you may have only one or a few indications. However, early intervention by a dermatologist, the expert in skin, hair and nail conditions, is key to successful treatment. “By seeking medical advice in the early stages, the condition’s progression can be stopped and permanent facial damage can be prevented,” according to Guy Webster, MD, PhD, a dermatologist in private practice in Delaware.

Rosacea rarely reverses itself and may last for years. It can become worse without treatment or when self-treated.

If you have been diagnosed with rosacea and have not seen your dermatologist for some time, you should also contact your dermatologist to prevent the disease from worsening.

Information about how dermatologists treat rosacea is found on the page about Treatments.

All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology