What are the subtypes of rosacea?

    Written by:

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Rosacea was previously categorized into 4 subtypes: erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous, and ocular. However, current recommendations suggest moving away from subtyping due to the common overlap of and progression between these subtypes in people with rosacea.

    Previously, a diagnosis of rosacea involved categorization into one of four subtypes:

    • Erythematotelangiectatic (flushing, redness, visible blood vessels)
    • Papulopustular (papules, pustules, redness, inflammation)
    • Phymatous (nodular growths, bulbous nose, dilated follicles)
    • Ocular (eye irritation/sensitivity, scaly/red eyelids, eye inflammation)

    However, current recommendations have moved away from subtyping, as people with rosacea often experience overlaps between subtypes and progression from one subtype to another. [1][2]