One common cause of rosy cheeks is rosacea, a chronic skin condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including redness, visible blood vessels, sensitive, dry skin and small, red bumps. A common and noticeable symptom of rosacea is rosy cheeks, which can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort for many people. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the appearance of rosy cheeks caused by rosacea.

The first step in reducing rosy cheeks caused by rosacea is to treat the underlying condition. Rosacea treatment options can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms, and may include topical and oral medications, lifestyle changes, and skincare strategies. It is important to work with an experienced doctor to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

Topical medications like brimonidine can be effective in reducing redness associated with a rosacea flare-up. This topical gel constricts the blood vessels in the affected area and can help reduce the appearance of rosy cheeks and other symptoms of rosacea. It is important to note that brimonidine may cause side effects like skin irritation and dryness. Other topical medications such as metronidazole and ivermectin, or oral medications such as doxycycline can settle the inflammation of rosacea and settle redness of the face as a result.

In addition to medication, there are other steps you can take to reduce the appearance of rosy cheeks caused by rosacea. One of the most important is to identify and avoid triggers that can worsen your symptoms, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures. It may also be helpful to use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products and to protect your skin from the sun.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) and laser treatments can also be effective in reducing the appearance of redness associated with rosacea. These treatments work by targeting the blood vessels (sometimes known as spider veins) beneath the skin and causing them to shrink, which can help reduce redness and improve the overall appearance of the skin. Both IPL and laser treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated, although they can sometimes cause temporary redness and swelling.

For some individuals with rosacea, a combination of different treatments may be most effective in reducing the appearance of rosy cheeks. It is important to work with an experienced GP or dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs and preferences.

There is no cure for rosacea, and it is possible that rosy cheeks and other symptoms may return even with treatment. However, by following a consistent treatment plan and making lifestyle changes to avoid triggers, you can reduce the frequency and severity of rosacea flare-ups and minimise the appearance of rosy cheeks and other symptoms.