Rosacea

Access private rosacea treatments with your trusted NHS doctor

Overview

Clinically supervised options for rosacea treatment, including prescription topical anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic therapies where clinically appropriate following medical assessment.

Rosacea treatment is not suitable for everyone and may require ongoing review depending on symptoms, skin sensitivity, and treatment response.

Last updated: May 2026


NHS access and private treatment

Many rosacea treatments are available through NHS GP services. However, access, prescribing preferences, and waiting times may vary depending on local NHS services and clinical presentation.

Private treatment may be considered where clinically appropriate following assessment.

Some prescription rosacea medicines are not suitable for:

  • pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • certain skin conditions
  • allergy to ivermectin, metronidazole, or azelaic acid
  • severe skin irritation or eczema
  • some concurrent medicines or medical conditions

Private suitability

Private prescribing may be suitable for adults who:

  • Have facial redness, inflammatory rosacea, or rosacea-related skin irritation
  • Have persistent symptoms affecting quality of life
  • Have previously tried non-prescription skincare without adequate improvement
  • Are able to provide clear photographs where requested
  • Have no contraindications identified during assessment

Remote treatment may not be suitable for:

  • rapidly worsening facial rash
  • severe swelling or infection
  • suspicious skin lesions
  • significant eye symptoms
  • severe medication reactions

Some cases may require in-person assessment.


Common questionnaire topics

Assessment commonly includes:

  • Current rosacea symptoms and affected areas
  • Previous rosacea treatments and skincare products
  • Pregnancy and contraception screening where relevant
  • Current medicines and allergies
  • Skin sensitivity and previous reactions
  • Medical history and concurrent conditions
  • Uploaded photographs where appropriate

Patients may be asked to provide additional clinical information or photographs before a prescribing decision is made.

Treatment decisions are made independently by the reviewing doctor based on safety, suitability, medical history, and current clinical guidance.


Treatment approach

Prescription rosacea treatment is usually combined with supportive skincare measures and trigger avoidance strategies.

Treatment plans may include:

  • topical anti-inflammatory treatments
  • topical anti-parasitic treatments
  • ongoing skin care advice
  • regular treatment review where appropriate

Some treatments may initially cause:

  • dryness
  • irritation
  • redness
  • skin sensitivity

Treatment may be adjusted, paused, or stopped depending on clinical response and tolerability.


Further information

Review Fee

The fixed medical review fee for this indication is £10.00.

This fee covers the independent clinical assessment carried out by your reviewing doctor, including reviewing your medical questionnaire, checking suitability and safety, and making a prescribing decision where appropriate.

The review fee is charged once your request is submitted for clinical assessment and is non-refundable after the review has been completed.

Available Medicines

Each prescription typically includes one treatment tube, representing approximately one to two months of treatment when used as directed.

ivermectinSoolantra1%1 tube (45 g)Topical£31.992 units: 5% saving

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