Rosacea in Teens and 20s

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

Rosacea is most commonly diagnosed in middle age, but it can and does affect younger people, including teenagers and young adults. In the last year I have seen several patients in their 20s with severe rosacea which had previously been diagnosed as acne. In this age group there is often an overlap with acne which can make the diagnosis more challenging.

Can young people really get rosacea or is it just acne?

Yes, young people can certainly get rosacea. While less common than in older adults, a genetic predisposition can cause symptoms to appear early.

How can early rosacea be distinguished from breakouts?

Particularly in younger patients, the diagnosis may be subtle and is not always associated with classic features such as facial flushing and background redness.
If a diagnosis of acne has been made but there is not response to first line treatments it is always important to question the diagnosis and consider other diagnoses. See Differential Diagnosis of Rosacea.

Related articles

• Do I Really Have Rosacea?
• Types of Rosacea Explained
• Living With Rosacea in Your 20s and 30s

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.