What is the cause of rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is not fully understood. There is NO connection between excessive alcohol consumption and rosacea- this is a myth that is unfortunately commonly held by the public and expressed in the media, which is upsetting for people who have the condition. Some people with rosacea have overreactive skin blood vessels which respond too easily to changes in temperature, hot drinks etc. and cause flushing attacks.. Rosacea is much commoner in people with fair skin, suggesting that exposure to sunlight is important.