When rosacea is the cause of red discoloration:
Understanding this common skin condition

While much remains to be learned about rosacea, this common skin condition can be effectively managed by partnering with our team at AVIVA Dermatology in Houston, Texas.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is most commonly associated with red discoloration. Redness can also be seen in other conditions, such as acne. It is important for our dermatologists, Drs Simone Stalling MD, PhD, FAAD and Rosannah Velasquez, MD, to accurately diagnose the source of flushing, bumps, and visible blood vessels. Only then can we make recommendations for treatment that actually works to reduce the number and severity of rosacea flare-ups.

What are the most common symptoms?

In addition to frequent flushing, pimple-like bumps, and noticeable capillaries, rosacea may be distinguished from other skin conditions by signs such as: 

  • Watery and bloodshot eyes
  • A sensation of burning and stinging skin
  • A leathery and dry texture 
  • Swelling 

Thick skin, especially on the nose (a condition called rhinophyma)

What causes rosacea?

This is one of the unknowns. Genetics is thought to play a role, and an overactive immune system may also be to blame. A variety of environmental and lifestyle factors have also been identified as “triggers” for flare-ups of rosacea symptoms. These triggers range from spicy foods and alcohol to stress and very cold or very hot temperatures. Sun exposure has also been implicated.

How do you treat rosacea?

There is no “cure” for this condition; however, we can advise on ways to manage it. The first step may be to isolate potential triggers. It is important to minimize your exposure to these triggers. We can also advise on gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and other skincare products. Of course, adequate sun protection is also essential. 

What happens if those measures don’t work?

Our office provides numerous professional services to manage and minimize your rosacea symptoms. Drs Stalling or Velasquez may prescribe medicated gels or other topical products. They work by reducing the inflammation in the skin to reduce redness and flaring. They may prescribe antibiotics taken by mouth for severe rosacea-related bumps and pimples. Light-based or laser therapies target redness in the skin to minimize the appearance of enlarged blood vessels and provide longer-term relief from rosacea symptoms. We tailor treatment to your needs and also monitor how interventions are working.

Is my face always going to be red?

Not necessarily. Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition, but persistent redness can often be reduced with proper treatment and daily care. Many people experience periods when their symptoms improve and times when flare-ups become more noticeable. Beginning treatment early may help limit progressive redness and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Simone Stalling may recommend prescription medications, laser therapy for visible blood vessels, and a gentle skincare routine designed to calm inflammation and support healthier-looking skin.

Why do I get pimples? Why does it look like acne?

Rosacea can trigger inflamed bumps that are easy to mistake for a traditional acne breakout, even though the underlying causes are different. Unlike clogged pores, rosacea is driven by ongoing inflammation that affects the skin and the tiny facial blood vessels. The bumps often appear alongside frequent flushing, lingering redness, burning, or unusually sensitive skin. As acne products may dry or further irritate rosacea-prone skin, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is important. Dr. Simone Stalling can determine whether your breakouts are caused by rosacea, acne, or a combination of both so that treatment can address the underlying problem.

How do you treat rosacea?

Treatment is customized according to the type and severity of your rosacea. Mild cases may improve with prescription topical medications, gentle skincare, and avoiding personal triggers. Patients with frequent inflammatory flare-ups may benefit from oral medications, while laser or light-based treatments can reduce persistent redness and visible blood vessels in appropriate candidates. No single treatment works for everyone so that Dr. Stalling will develop an individualized plan based on your symptoms, skin sensitivity, and treatment goals. Consistent follow-up care often helps maintain improvement and reduce future flare-ups.

What worsens rosacea?

Rosacea triggers vary from person to person, but certain factors commonly worsen symptoms. Sun exposure, high temperatures, spicy foods, alcohol, emotional stress, strenuous exercise, hot drinks, and sudden changes in weather may all increase facial flushing and inflammation. Harsh skincare products, over-exfoliation, and irritating cosmetics can also aggravate sensitive skin. Keeping track of when flare-ups occur may help identify your personal triggers. Reducing exposure to those triggers, combined with appropriate medical treatment, often improves symptom control and helps keep flare-ups less frequent.

Is there a specific ingredient I should avoid?

There is no single ingredient that everyone with rosacea must avoid, but many people have sensitive skin that reacts to common irritants. Products containing alcohol, menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus oil, strong fragrances, witch hazel, or harsh exfoliating acids may increase redness, burning, or stinging. Physical facial scrubs can also worsen irritation. Choosing fragrance-free cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen designed for sensitive skin is often a better option. Dr. Stalling can recommend products that strengthen your skin barrier while helping you avoid ingredients that may contribute to rosacea flare-ups.

Why should I choose AVIVA Dermatology?

Our practice in Houston, TX, specializes in the skin with extensive knowledge and experience in the treatment of a myriad of skin conditions, including rosacea.  Unlike other practices, we are true partners with our patients. These close partnerships allow us to understand better patients’ needs and how well their skin may respond to recommendations and therapies. This approach is complemented by investments in the technologies that power many advanced treatments. Together, these skills and capabilities help us to control redness, sustain relief from flare-ups, and avoid the complications of untreated rosacea (such as thickened tissues)—call (713) 468-0303 to schedule your consultation today.

Rosacea: More Than Just Redness

Rosacea Symptoms and Treatments You Should Know in Houston, TX
Video Transcript

Do you often notice redness, sensitivity, or a burning sensation on your face? You might be dealing with rosacea, a common, yet frequently misunderstood skin condition. Unlike acne, rosacea causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes watery eyes at your burning sensations. Accurate diagnosis by dermatologists like Dr. Stalling and Dr. Velasquez is key to effective treatment.

Frequent flushing, pimple-like bumps, and visible blood vessels are telltale signs of rosacea. Some people may also experience swelling or a thickened, leathery texture on the skin. The exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, but genetics and immune responses play a part.

Common triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and sun exposure. To manage rosacea, avoid known triggers, use gentle cleansers and moisturizers, and never skip sunscreen. Consistency is key to calm, balanced skin.

For more persistent symptoms, Aviva Dermatology offers advanced treatments, from prescription gels and antibiotics to innovative laser therapies that reduce redness and restore confidence. Take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin. Schedule your rosacea consultation with Aviva Dermatology in Houston today.