The main symptom of rosacea is facial flushing. However, it can also cause the skin to become dry, rough, and scaly, which may lead to secondary symptoms, such as itching.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the nose and cheeks.

This article describes the association between itchy skin and rosacea, including the prevalence of itchy skin among people with rosacea and other potential symptoms.

It also discusses treatments and home remedies for the condition.

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As the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) explains, itchiness is an uncommon symptom of rosacea. However, rosacea can cause the skin to become dry, rough, and scaly. This can cause discomfort, which may feel like burning, stinging, or itching.

There is very little recent research into the prevalence of itching as a symptom of rosacea. However, a 2022 study investigated itchiness in 782 people with rosacea.

Around 42% of the people in the study experienced itchy skin. The researchers suggested that itchiness was most likely due to changes in temperature and might occur alongside skin burning, flushing, or sensitivity.

According to the AAD, rosacea most often develops on the cheeks and nose, although it can also spread to other parts of the face, the scalp, and the upper body.

Rosacea often develops in stages. One of the earliest signs is usually a tendency to flush easily, which people may notice as increased warmth in their skin.

Individuals with lighter skin tones may experience skin redness, while those with darker skin tones may notice a more violet tone. Over time, skin flushing can persist for longer periods, such as weeks or months.

The following skin changes may also occur:

Less commonly, rosacea may cause thickening of the skin. More common in males, this can happen if a person does not seek treatment for rosacea.

Ocular rosacea

In some cases, rosacea may also affect the eyes. The medical term for this is ocular rosacea, and symptoms can include:

According to the AAD, many skin conditions can cause itchiness, including the following:

People may be able to treat and manage itchiness by avoiding scratching and using over-the-counter creams and lotions.

If itchiness is due to rosacea, people may also be able to reduce itchiness by treating the condition itself.

Doctors usually prescribe topical medications for mild cases of rosacea and reserve oral medications for moderate or severe cases.

Topical medications are available as creams, gels, or ointments. They can help to treat flushing and may contain one of the following ingredients:

  • antibiotics
  • antiparasitics
  • vasoconstrictors, which narrow blood vessels beneath the skin

A doctor may prescribe oral medications containing antibiotics or retinoids for more severe cases of rosacea.

Preventing rosacea flares can help prevent the condition from worsening and alleviate skin dryness, itchiness, and other symptoms.

Common rosacea triggers to avoid include:

  • harsh weather conditions, such as strong sunlight, heat, or cold wind
  • certain skin care products or cosmetics
  • hairspray and other hair products
  • certain foods and drinks, such as spicy foods and alcohol
  • stress

The following home remedies may help to relieve itching:

  • applying a cold, wet compress or ice pack to the area for 5 to 10 minutes
  • bathing in a lukewarm oatmeal bath
  • moisturizing the skin with a fragrance-free moisturizer that is suitable for sensitive skin
  • refrigerating calamine lotion to boost its cooling effects and applying this to the affected skin
  • applying topical anesthetics containing pramoxine

People should speak with a doctor if they develop symptoms of rosacea or if they have rosacea and the condition is not responding appropriately to treatment.

Without appropriate treatment, rosacea can worsen and may lead to permanent skin changes. It can also affect the eyes.

Is rosacea itchy and burning?

According to the AAD, rosacea can cause skin burning, stinging, and itching.

A 2022 study found that around 42% of people with rosacea experienced itchiness, which often happened alongside burning. In an older 2006 survey, itching was the second most commonly reported rosacea symptom after burning.

What makes rosacea so itchy?

Rosacea causes the skin to become overly dry and tight. This can result in skin irritation and itching.

What does a rosacea flare feel like?

People experiencing a rosacea flare will usually find that the skin on their face feels warm or hot to the touch. They may notice color changes, such as red, brown, or violet skin or visible blood vessels beneath the skin.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the skin of the nose and cheeks. The characteristic symptom is facial flushing, although affected skin may also become dry, tight, and scaly. This can lead to burning and itching.

Treating rosacea with topical or oral medications may relieve itchiness. People can also try home treatments to alleviate itching, such as moisturizing the skin, applying cold compresses, or applying over-the-counter remedies.

People should see a doctor if they develop rosacea symptoms or if their rosacea is not responding to treatment. Without proper treatment, rosacea can worsen and may lead to permanent skin changes.