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Risk Factors for Rosacea

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Risk Factors for Rosacea

A risk factor is something that raises the chance of getting a disease or condition. It is possible to have rosacea with or without the risks listed below. The more risks a person has, the greater the chance of having rosacea. Talk to the doctor about how to lower the risk of rosacea.

Gender

Women get rosacea more often than men. Men have a higher risk of having severe rosacea.

Age

Rosacea tends to happen in adults between 30 and 60 years of age. In women rosacea can happen around the time menopause starts.

Family History

Family history may play a role in rosacea. It can often be found in several members of a family.

Skin Tone

People of any skin color can have rosacea. It tends to occur more often in people who get sunburns easily.

Sun Exposure

Being in the sun too much may harm the skin and blood vessels on the face. This may increase the risk of having rosacea.

History of Acne

Some types of severe acne are linked with an increased risk of rosacea.

Ethnic Background

This can occur in all ethnic groups. It occurs more among people of English, Scottish, Scandinavian, and Northern or Eastern European ancestry.

References

  • Rosacea. DermNet New Zealand website. Available at: https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/rosacea.
  • Rosacea. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/condition/rosacea.
  • Rosacea. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disorders website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/rosacea.
  • Sunshine casts a rosacea shadow. National Rosacea Society website. Available at: https://www.rosacea.org/rosacea-review/2002/spring/sunshine-casts-a-rosacea-shadow.

Contributors

  • Nicole S. Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2022-02-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.