A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes facial flushing, visible blood vessels, sensitivity, and red bumps. Because the skin is often very sensitive and harsh products can trigger flares, a simple, gentle, and consistent routine is important.

Key Principles for Rosacea-Safe Skincare

Keep it simple: Use fewer products, fewer steps, and fragrance-free products.
Daily SPF: UV light is a major trigger—use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day.
Introduce actives slowly: Patch test and start 2–3 times weekly to assess tolerance.
Know your triggers: Common triggers include heat, sun, wind, alcohol, spicy food, hot drinks, stress, and harsh skincare.

A Simple AM Routine

Gentle Cleanser (optional): If your skin isn’t oily on waking, you can rinse with lukewarm water only. Otherwise use a mild, non-foaming, fragrance-free cleanser. I like Cetaphil cleansers.
Moisturiser: If your skin is dry you may need to use a light moisturiser. If your skin is not dry this is not essential.
Sun Protection (essential): Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50. I like the Anthelios range (La Roche Posay).
Other tips: Green-tinted products neutralise redness.

A Simple PM Routine

Cleanser: Use a gentle cleanser, for example Cetaphil foaming cleanser.
Targeted Treatment (if using): Apply prescription or over-the-counter actives on clean, dry skin. Start 2–3 nights per week and increase as tolerated. Always test new products on a small area of the skin for a few days first.
Moisturiser: Use a light moisturiser such as Cerave/Cetaphil. This is not needed if your skin is oily.

Active Ingredients

Ivermectin (prescription): In my experience this is the most effective active ingredient for inflammatory rosacea.
Azelaic acid: Anti-inflammatory, reduces bumps and redness.
Metronidazole (prescription): Less effective than Ivermectin.

Use With Caution (Introduce Slowly or Avoid During Flares)

Retinoids: Can be helpful, but must be introduced very gradually.
Exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA, PHA): I would generally avoid these in patients with sensitive skin.

When to Seek Medical Care

Frequent or severe flares despite a gentle routine
Persistent bumps/pustules or significant redness
Eye symptoms (dry, gritty, burning, red eyelids) suggesting ocular rosacea
Skin thickening of the nose/cheeks (phymatous changes)

Effective prescription options include topical/metronidazole or ivermectin, oral antibiotics (e.g., low-dose doxycycline), systemic retinoids and vascular laser for redness and visible vessels.

Dr. Magnus Lynch, Consultant Dermatologist

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis, Mohs micrographic surgery, acne, rosacea, acne scarring and laser treatments. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer. In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at the London Bridge Hospital, OneWelbeck (near to Bond Street station) and on Harley Street. A new consultation is £250. Book A Consultation.

I am the founder of Revessa Health which provides online consultations for acne and rosacea across the UK (see below).