Exploring the Psychosocial Effects and Lifestyle Influences of Rosacea in China: Insights for Better Skin Health

Recent research from China sheds light on the links between lifestyle, health conditions, and rosacea, revealing how this skin condition impacts quality of life. The study suggests a need for more awareness and research in China, where the effects of rosacea are not thoroughly documented.

Study Overview

Conducted at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from May 2018 to May 2020, the study involved 200 patients with rosacea and 200 healthy individuals. Over 70% of the participants were women. Each participant filled out a questionnaire covering daily habits, environmental exposures, dietary choices, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Researchers used tools like the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to gauge the psychological impact of rosacea. They found that many patients experienced significant distress, due in part to cultural attitudes toward skin health.

Lifestyle Connections

The study identified several lifestyle factors associated with rosacea. Among rosacea patients, more were smokers (20% compared to 7% of controls) and alcohol users (22% vs. 5.5%). Those using cosmetics frequently also had higher rates of the condition (29.5% vs. 0%).

Sun exposure stood out as a major factor; nearly half of the rosacea group reported frequent sunburns, while rosacea cases were higher in warmer weather (29.5% vs. 0%). Interestingly, daily exercise and enjoying hot baths were also linked to rosacea.

Diet and Health Conditions

Dietary habits showed notable patterns. Those consuming dairy, especially milk and yogurt, had a higher incidence of rosacea (44.5% vs. 29%). Drinking hot coffee was also linked to increased prevalence (14.5% vs. 8%). However, other foods like fatty or spicy items didn’t show similar links.

Among existing health conditions, only diabetes was significantly related to rosacea. Many common associations with other conditions, like high blood pressure or certain gastrointestinal diseases, were not supported in this study. However, past studies have indicated that rosacea may connect with broader health issues such as heart disease and neurological disorders.

Impact on Quality of Life

Rosacea significantly affected patients’ lives. The majority scored high on the DLQI, indicating extreme impacts on their daily routines. For depression, about 46.5% had none, but a notable percentage experienced various levels of depressive symptoms. Comparatively, all control group members reported no depression.

A clear link emerged between quality of life and depression levels, suggesting that managing mental health could be critical for rosacea patients.

Recommendations for Management

The researchers suggest that treating rosacea should go beyond addressing skin symptoms. They recommend focusing on modifiable risk factors: cutting back on alcohol and smoking, reducing coffee and dairy intake, and boosting sun protection. Regular mental health screenings and support could also improve patient outcomes, especially in cultures where mental health stigma is prevalent.

“Further studies that explore these connections in more depth are essential for improving treatment strategies,” the authors concluded.

Additional Insights

A survey by the National Rosacea Society found that nearly 90% of rosacea patients felt the condition embarrassed them, highlighting the importance of both physical and psychological care. This aligns with the study findings that underscore the need for comprehensive management approaches.

As this area of research evolves, understanding both physical and emotional links to rosacea will likely improve outcomes for many sufferers.

References

1. Kunwar N, Jian D, Hui HY, Bai B. Exploring Factors, Comorbidities, Quality of Life (DLQI), and Depression (PHQ-9) in Rosacea Patients: A Comprehensive Analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(8):e70337. doi:10.1111/jocd.70337
2. Haber R, El Gemayel M. Comorbidities in rosacea: A systematic review and update. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018;78(4):786-792.e8. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2017.09.016

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