Late-Onset Rosacea in Adults

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

While rosacea often begins between the ages of 30 and 50, its sudden appearance can be confusing for those who have never had significant skin issues before.

Why did rosacea start suddenly in my 30s–50s?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition with a genetic predisposition, while you are born with the tendency it often deoes not become apparent until after the age of 30. It can be triggered by environmental factors such as cumulative sun exposure, changes in the skin's microbiome (like Demodex mites), hormonal shifts (especially perimenopause), and increased life stressors, however in many patients there are no obvious triggers.

Is late-onset rosacea common even with no prior skin issues?

Yes, it is very common. Many patients I see for new-onset rosacea in their 40s or 50s report having had clear skin their entire lives. Some may have suffered from acne when younger. It is a distinct inflammatory disorder that can activate for the first time in mid-life.

Related articles

• Rosacea and Menopause
• Why Did My Rosacea Suddenly Get Worse?
• Do I Really Have Rosacea?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. 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 and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

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.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.