Taneesa Williamson Bringing awareness to rosacea in the treatment room.
April marks Rosacea Awareness Month, an important opportunity to raise awareness about one of the most common yet frequently misunderstood chronic skin conditions. While rosacea affects an estimated 10% of Australians, it remains under-diagnosed and frequently mistaken for acne or sun sensitivity.
As trusted professionals in the treatment room, skin therapists and dermal clinicians are often the first point of contact for clients navigating unexplained redness, flushing, or persistent skin sensitivity. That’s why awareness, education, and an informed treatment approach are crucial.
Recognising Rosacea In Your Clinic
Rosacea most commonly presents as chronic redness across the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead, but it can appear in various forms:
- Flushing or visible capillaries
- Sensitive or stinging skin
- Papules or pustules resembling acne
- Dry, irritated eyes (ocular rosacea)
- Thickened skin, particularly around the nose (rhinophyma), in more advanced cases
Clients may not always know what they’re dealing with – they just know their skin feels irritated, red, or unpredictable. The ability to recognise these symptoms early is key to guiding them toward the right care pathway.
Common Triggers + Ingredients To Watch Out For
According to the National Rosacea Society, over 80% of rosacea sufferers say certain skincare products worsen their symptoms. Skin clinics should take note of common irritants that may be found in cosmetic and skincare formulations:
- Alcohol-based ingredients
- Fragrance or perfume
- Menthol and peppermint oil
- Witch hazel
- Sulfates and synthetic dyes
When conducting a consultation, it’s essential to take a thorough history of the client’s product use and lifestyle habits. What may seem like a minor formulation tweak could be triggering a flare.
How Skin Clinics Can Help
Supporting clients with rosacea or rosacea-prone skin involves more than just product swaps – it’s about offering a calming, collaborative treatment plan that focuses on barrier support, education, and lifestyle management.
1. Offer a Barrier-First Approach
Opt for fragrance-free, anti-inflammatory ingredients and prioritise barrier-repairing treatments. LED light therapy (particularly red and near-infrared) can be a gentle, non-invasive option to help calm inflammation over time.
2. Educate Around Triggers
Encourage clients to track their flare-ups and begin identifying common triggers – like spicy foods, alcohol, extreme weather, or emotional stress. This empowers them to participate actively in their care.
3. Keep Treatments Gentle
Avoid excessive heat, over-exfoliation, or anything that compromises the skin barrier. Laser and IPL treatments can be effective for telangiectasia and persistent redness but should only be used when skin is stable – and ideally under the supervision or referral of a dermatologist.
4. Create a Referral Network
Build strong relationships with local dermatologists so you can refer clients who need prescription treatment or further assessment. Collaborative care can lead to the best results – both medically and aesthetically.
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