Specific triggers can cause both conditions to flare up. Avoiding triggers, practicing proper skin care, and applying or taking medications may help reduce symptoms.
Read on to learn more about rosacea and eczema, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments.
The exact causes of rosacea and eczema are unknown. However, they both appear to be related to environmental and genetic factors.
A 2018 systematic review estimated that more than 5% of adults have rosacea, many of whom are between 45 and 60 years old. Genetics appear to play a part in causing rosacea, as there is often a family history of the condition.
Several triggers may cause people with a genetic predisposition to develop rosacea, including:
- ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure
- spicy foods
- alcohol
- extreme temperatures
- stress
- hormone changes
- microorganisms such as Demodex mites or Helicobacter pylori
Learn 7 things doctors want you to know about rosacea.
Eczema also appears to have a genetic component. According to a 2019 review of several studies, a common finding among people with eczema is a genetic mutation that decreases the function of the skin’s protective barrier. This allows the skin to dehydrate more quickly and makes it easier for harmful substances to enter.
Eczema tends to first appear in childhood and last into adulthood.
Specific triggers may also cause the condition to flare up. These include:
- temperature extremes
- sun exposure
- irritating clothing
- fragrances in soaps or other skin care products
- exposure to allergens such as animal dander, pollen, or mold
- hormonal changes
- stress
- food allergies
Learn more about eczema triggers.
Rosacea and eczema have different appearances and symptoms.
Because rosacea causes many signs and symptoms, experts break the condition into four subtypes. It is possible for you to experience one or more subtypes of rosacea at the same time.
People with rosacea subtype 1 may experience:
- flushing and discoloration of the skin in the middle of the face
- visible blood vessels
- sensitive skin
- swollen skin
- stinging or burning skin
- dry, rough, or scaling skin
- blushing more easily
People with rosacea subtype 2 may experience some of the same signs and symptoms as subtype 1. They may also notice:
- acne breakouts on heavily discolored skin that come and go
- oily skin
- plaques, or raised skin patches
Though it is rare, rosacea subtype 3 can also cause:
- bumpy skin texture
- large pores
- thick skin on the:
Rosacea subtype 4 can cause eye signs and symptoms like:
- watery, red eyes
- a gritty feeling
- a burning or stinging sensation
- dry eyes
- itchy eyes
- light sensitivity
- blurry or reduced vision
- visible blood vessels on eyelids
- eyelid cysts
Rosacea may be more difficult to see on dark skin tones, which can lead to a delay in treatment due to misdiagnosis.
Learn more about the stages of rosacea.
Eczema symptoms include an itchy, dry rash. The skin can feel dry and scaly. Depending on your age, the rash may appear in different areas.
Infants can develop widespread eczema patches, particularly on their cheeks and scalp. It may cause increased fussiness and difficulty sleeping.
Children commonly get eczema on their elbows, knees, ankles, and areas where the skin creases. The skin can start to thicken where the rash keeps appearing. As they get older, children may experience eczema symptoms similar to adults.
In adults, patches of dry, scaly skin can affect many areas of the body, especially the areas where the skin creases. The skin may also be thicker and dryer in areas where previous rashes were.
People with light skin tones may see pink to red discoloration in the affected areas. People with dark skin tones may notice color changes ranging from dark brown to violet to gray.
Learn more about what eczema looks like.
View the slideshow below to see pictures of rosacea and eczema.
To diagnose skin conditions, your dermatologist will ask about your personal and family medical histories and closely evaluate your skin.
Rosacea and eczema can be diagnosed clinically, meaning your doctor can make a diagnosis based on the appearance and symptoms of your rash and your medical history. If the diagnosis is unclear, they may perform additional tests like allergy tests.
People with eye symptoms caused by rosacea may also need to see an ophthalmologist.
There are some similarities between treatments for rosacea and eczema.
Determining what is triggering your rosacea or eczema outbreak is important. You may notice an improvement in your skin when you avoid those triggers.
Protecting your skin from the sun and extreme weather conditions is also essential. You can apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat.
Use soaps, detergents, and skin care products that are gentle and fragrance-free. Also, avoid roughly scrubbing your skin and bathing or showering in hot water. Gently wash your skin in warm water instead.
For both rosacea and eczema, moisturizing your skin regularly is important for relieving and preventing symptoms.
People with rosacea may need medications to manage skin discoloration, inflammation, and eye symptoms. Procedures like laser treatment may also be beneficial for some people.
Learn what to expect with laser treatment for rosacea.
People with eczema may also need topical or systemic medications to manage inflammation and itching.
Learn more about medical treatments and home remedies for eczema.
Though there is no cure for either rosacea or eczema, learning proper skin care and following your doctor’s treatment plan can help reduce uncomfortable symptoms.
Rosacea and eczema are chronic skin conditions that come and go. One key difference is that rosacea typically appears in adulthood, while eczema is more common in children.
The conditions also look different. Rosacea typically affects the face and causes red or flushed skin, widened blood vessels visible under the skin, and sometimes raised bumps. Eczema can appear in several places on the skin and appears as a dry, flaky, very itchy rash.
Treatment for both conditions involves learning, avoiding triggers, and preventing skin irritation with proper skin care practices. Topical and systemic medications may also be beneficial.
Contact your doctor if you believe you have symptoms of either rosacea or eczema. Early treatment can help manage the conditions and reduce complications.