04/13/2026
Let’s break down the 4 main types of rosacea! Not all “redness” is the same, and treatment really depends on what you’re actually dealing with.❤
Type 1:
This one shows up as persistent redness with visible tiny blood vessels. Patients often notice flushing that comes and goes at first, then sticks around for awhile.
Type 2:
The most common type - and the one people mistake for acne. You’ll see redness plus bumps (papules and pustules), but without the blackheads you’d expect with acne.
Type 3:
Less common, but more advanced. This type causes thickened, uneven, oily skin - most often on the nose (rhinophyma). It’s seen more frequently in older men.
Type 4:
This affects the eyes rather than the skin. Think dryness, irritation, a gritty or burning sensation, and sometimes swelling of the eyelids. It can show up alone or alongside skin symptoms.
This is why a proper evaluation with your dermatologist matters - because each subtype is treated differently. For example, oral medications aren’t very helpful for Type 1 since the issue is dilated blood vessels, not inflammation. On the contrary, creams aren't very helpful for Type 3 since the issue is thickened skin, rather than pustules.
