Rosacea in Different Skin Tones: What You Need to Know

Learn how rosacea appears in darker skin tones and why it’s often misdiagnosed. Ariana Esthetic in Edmonton offers expert rosacea care for all skin types.

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8/5/20251 min read

IPL machine at Ariana Esthetic Edmonton
IPL machine at Ariana Esthetic Edmonton

Many people believe rosacea only affects fair skin, but it can affect all skin tones. Unfortunately, it’s often underdiagnosed in medium to dark complexions.

Unique Presentation in Darker Skin Tones

  • Less noticeable redness, more visible swelling

  • Skin thickening (phymatous rosacea) is more prominent

  • Burning or stinging rather than visible flushing

  • Hyperpigmentation instead of pinkness

Challenges in Diagnosis

  • Redness may be subtle or missed entirely

  • Misdiagnosis as acne or eczema

  • Lack of awareness among general practitioners

What to Look For

  • Warmth, swelling, or skin sensitivity

  • Bumps or breakouts that don’t respond to acne treatments

  • Irritated eyes or vision changes

Treatment Considerations

  • Laser therapies must be chosen carefully to avoid pigment changes

  • Focus on reducing inflammation and protecting the skin barrier

Ariana Esthetic specializes in diagnosing rosacea across all skin tones. Book your consultation at Ariana Esthetic and take the first step toward balanced, healthy skin.

Find more about rosacea in these articles:

Understanding Rosacea: Causes, Types, and Early Symptoms

Top 7 Triggers That Make Rosacea Worse — And How to Avoid Them

Advanced Rosacea Treatments: From Laser to Topicals

Living with Rosacea: Mental Health, Confidence & Support