31/07/2025
So good, Ananda Mahony Naturopath & Nutritionist! You’ve explained this in such a simple, relatable way. Rosacea can be so frustrating, and most people don’t realise there’s often more going on under the surface. Love how you’re linking gut, immune, and skin health all together 👏
Anyone else notice their rosacea flares up with stress or certain foods? Would love to hear what’s helped you 💬👇
Is Rosacea Autoimmune?
No, but there’s a connection.
While rosacea is not classified as an autoimmune disease, it shares several inflammatory and immune-modulating pathways that are common in autoimmune conditions.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. In rosacea, the immune system is overactive, but it doesn't directly attack the body. Rather, it over-reacts to triggers like microbes UV exposure, temperature changes, or stress.
Shared mechanisms include:
• Chronic inflammation
• Immune dysregulation
• Altered gut-skin axis and potential intestinal permeability ("leaky gut")
• Oxidative stress
Comorbidity with Autoimmune Conditions
Studies have shown that people with rosacea are more likely to also have autoimmune diseases, such as:
• Coeliac disease
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Type 1 diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
While this doesn’t mean rosacea causes these conditions, it highlights an underlying immune vulnerability that may predispose someone to multiple immune-related issues.
Implications
This overlap means that for some individuals, addressing systemic inflammation, gut health, and immune balance can not only support rosacea but also benefit overall immune regulation. An holistic approach that considers the unique factors contributing may be especially helpful.
