Tetracyclines for Rosacea

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

Oral tetracyclines are one of the most effective treatment for the inflammatory bumps and pustules of rosacea. I will generally prescribe lymecycline as it has less side effects than older tetracyclines such as doxycycline.

Which doses work best?

For rosacea, the standard dose of lymecycline is 408mg once daily. This dose has been shown to be effective at reducing papules and pustules.

Does long-term use lose effectiveness?

The goal is usually to use oral medication to gain initial control, and then maintain the results with topical treatments alone if possible. Lymecycline is usually prescribed for a 3 month course sometimes extended up to 6 months but is not continued long term.

Related articles

• Does Doxycycline Help Ocular Rosacea?
• Azithromycin When Doxycycline Fails
• Prescription Creams for 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.