What causes rosacea?

Rosacea, often associated with couperose, is a chronic skin condition that manifests itself as persistent redness and small visible blood vessels on the face. Although it is commonly seen in people with fair skin, its exact causes remain poorly understood. However, several factors can contribute to its onset and worsening.

What is the difference between couperose and rosacea?

  • Rosacea : Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that primarily affects the face. It presents with a variety of symptoms, including persistent redness, flushing , papules and pustules (similar to acne), and, in some cases, eye involvement or thickening of the skin. Rosacea has several forms, each with different characteristics.

  • Rosacea : Rosacea is one of the symptoms of rosacea, more precisely of the vascular form. It is characterized by persistent redness and the presence of small dilated blood vessels (telangiectasias) visible on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Unlike other forms of rosacea , rosacea does not include active inflammation with papules or pustules.

What are the symptoms of rosacea and couperose?

Rosacea

The manifestations of rosacea can vary considerably depending on its form:

  • Vascular form : Persistent redness, hot flashes, and visible dilated blood vessels (rosacea).
  • Papulopustular form : Appearance of small red bumps (papules) and pustules that resemble acne.
  • Ocular rosacea : Affects the eyes, causing redness, irritation, burning sensations , and dry eyes.
  • Hypertrophic (or phymatous) form : Thickening of the skin, often on the nose, which can become bulbous (rhinophyma).

Rosacea

It specifically involves diffuse redness and telangiectasias (small dilated blood vessels) that appear on the face. It is not accompanied by the papules, pustules, or ocular symptoms seen in other forms of rosacea.

  • Persistent redness : Appears mainly on the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. This redness can intensify with changes in temperature, alcohol consumption, stress, or exposure to the sun.
  • Small blood vessels visible : Dilated capillaries, also called telangiectasias, are often visible on the surface of the skin, giving a "red streak" appearance.
  • Sensations of heat or burning : The skin may also experience burning or tingling sensations, especially when applying cosmetic products or when exposed to irritants.

What causes couperose and rosacea?

The precise cause of rosacea and, by extension, couperose, is not yet clearly established. However, several factors can contribute to its development and worsening of symptoms:

  1. Genetic predisposition : Rosacea mainly affects people with fair skin , which suggests a genetic component.
  2. Vascular reactions : Hot flashes, which cause small blood vessels to dilate, are a common symptom of rosacea. These reactions are often triggered by factors such as stress, heat, alcohol, spicy foods, or sun exposure.
  3. Chronic inflammation : Rosacea is an inflammatory disease, and persistent inflammation can damage blood vessels, leading to facial redness and dilated capillaries.
  4. Environmental factors and lifestyle : Climate, pollution, certain cosmetic products or inappropriate local treatments can also aggravate the symptoms of rosacea .
  5. Microbial factors : Certain microorganisms, such as Demodex folliculorum (a skin mite), are more abundant in people with rosacea, which may play a role in its onset.

Treatments available for couperose and rosacea

There is no definitive cure for couperose or rosacea, but several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve the appearance of the skin:

  • Local treatments : Creams and gels containing metronidazole, azelaic acid or brimonidine can reduce redness and inflammation.
  • Antibiotics : Antibiotics such as doxycycline are often used to treat more severe forms, such as papulopustular rosacea , because of their anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Laser and pulsed light : These treatments are effective in reducing persistent redness and dilated blood vessels.
  • Lifestyle changes : Avoiding known triggers (heat, alcohol, spicy foods, etc.) can help prevent flare-ups and worsening symptoms .

What beauty routine for rosacea?

A beauty routine tailored to rosacea aims to soothe the skin, reduce redness, protect weakened blood vessels, and prevent irritation. Here is a daily beauty routine designed for skin affected by rosacea:

1. Gentle cleansing (Morning and evening)

Choose a gentle, soap- and fragrance-free cleanser that respects the skin barrier. Opt for hydrating and soothing formulas, such as those containing thermal water , aloe vera , or lipid-replenishing agents (such as glycerin). Avoid foaming cleansers or those containing alcohol, which can irritate and dry out the skin.

  • Product example : Gentle cleansing gel or soothing makeup remover milk.

2. Soothing tonic (Morning and evening)

Use an alcohol-free toner enriched with soothing ingredients like rose water , chamomile , or niacinamide to reduce redness and calm skin. Apply gently with a cotton pad or pat with your hands.

  • Product example : Rosewater Hydrating Toner or Niacinamide Toner.

3. Anti-redness serum (Morning)

Apply a serum specially formulated for rosacea-prone skin, containing anti-inflammatory and soothing active ingredients such as niacinamide , azelaic acid , or licorice extract . These ingredients help strengthen capillaries and reduce the appearance of redness.

  • Product example : Anti-redness serum with niacinamide or azelaic acid.

4. Soothing moisturizer (Morning and evening)

Choose a moisturizer formulated for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, rich in soothing ingredients like thermal spring water , ceramides , or bisabolol . Look for products that strengthen the skin barrier, minimize inflammation, and provide intense hydration.

  • Product example : Soothing moisturizing cream with thermal water or ceramides.

5. Sun protection (Morning)

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum) every morning, even on cloudy days. UV rays make rosacea worse by damaging capillaries and triggering inflammation. Choose mineral filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) which are less irritating for sensitive skin.

  • Product Example : Mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

6. Corrective makeup (if desired)

Use a green concealer to neutralize redness, followed by a tinted cream or foundation formulated for sensitive skin. Choose products that are non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and enriched with soothing agents.

  • Product example : Green redness corrector and soothing foundation for sensitive skin.

7. Specific care (Evening)

Incorporate specific treatments like serums or creams with azelaic acid or ceramides that help repair skin and reduce redness over time. Consult a dermatologist for recommendations tailored to your specific case.

8. Soothing masks (1 to 2 times a week)

Apply a hydrating, soothing mask to comfort skin and reduce redness. Look for ingredients like honey , aloe vera , or colloidal oatmeal for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Product example : Hydrating mask with aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal.

Additional tips for rosacea-prone skin:

  • Avoid triggers : Limit sun exposure, avoid alcohol, spicy foods, hot drinks, and stress as much as possible.
  • Use lukewarm water : Wash your face with lukewarm water rather than hot water, which can dilate blood vessels.
  • Choose soft fabrics : Use towels and pillows made of soft fabrics (such as cotton or silk) to avoid irritation from friction.
  • Consult a dermatologist : If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a professional for appropriate medical treatment.