Maeve A. Mc Aleer, MRCP(UK), Regional Centre of Dermatology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Frank C. Powell, MD, FRCPI, Regional Centre of Dermatology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.

Rosacea is a common, but frequently misunderstood, skin condition. As it affects the face and is unsightly, rosacea can cause considerable social distress, especially because of the historical belief that alcohol is involved in its causation. This article outlines the clinical features of rosacea and the standard subtype classification of the condition. The theories of pathogenesis are outlined and the management approaches are discussed.
Key words: rosacea, classification, rhinophyma, ocular disease, management.