Rosacea treatment

Treatment for rosacea with Mirvaso, Rozex, Soolantra, and Efracea - available to buy online from Dr Fox.

Read medical information and answer medical questions to buy treatment online.

Rosacea medication

Prices

All medicine supplied is UK licensed.

Mirvaso Gel

Mirvaso Gel (brimonidine)

30gm from £41.00

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Rozex

Rozex (metronidazole)

Gel/cream from £15.90

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Soolantra

Soolantra Cream (ivermectin)

45gm from £42.00

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Efracea

Efracea (doxycycline 40mg)

14 capsules from £18.20

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Prices

Rosacea treatment Quantity Cost
Mirvaso Gel (brimonidine 3mg/1g) 1 x 30gm tube £41.00
Mirvaso Gel (brimonidine 3mg/1g) 2 x 30gm tubes £80.00
Mirvaso Gel (brimonidine 3mg/1g) 3 x 30gm tubes £120.00
Rozex (0.75% metronidazole) 1 x 30gm tube £15.90
Rozex (0.75% metronidazole) 1 x 40gm tube £21.90
Rozex (0.75% metronidazole) 2 x 40gm tubes £36.40
Rozex (0.75% metronidazole) 3 x 40gm tubes £50.70
Rozex (0.75% metronidazole) 4 x 40gm tubes £63.20
Soolantra Cream (1% ivermectin, 10mg/gm) 1 x 45 gram tube £42.00
Soolantra Cream (1% ivermectin, 10mg/gm) 2 x 45 gram tube £79.70
Efracea (40mg doxycycline) 14 capsules £18.20
Efracea (40mg doxycycline) 28 capsules £34.00
Efracea (40mg doxycycline) 56 capsules £55.40
Efracea (40mg doxycycline) 112 capsules £104.00

Price match guaranteePrice match guarantee
Prescription issued online - small prescription fee per order.

Prescription fees

Dr Fox supplies medicine on prescription and charges a small prescription fee based on the order value of each prescription.

Prescriptions are issued by our doctors online and sent electronically to our pharmacy.

Order value Prescription fee
up to £10 £1.00
up to £20 £2.00
up to £40 £3.00
over £40 £4.00

If you have your own private or NHS paper prescription please post to our pharmacy (details).

Dr Fox prices are 25%–50% lower than other UK online clinics.

Delivery charges

UK delivery only: £2.90 per consultation via Royal Mail Tracked 24 Signed For (1-2 working days with tracking).

Parcel forwarding services are not permitted. Use only UK home or work delivery address.

Returns and refunds - unwanted items can be returned within 14 working days for a full refund.

Medical information

Written and reviewed by a team of doctors. Dr Fox is regulated by the CQC & GPhC.

What is rosacea?

Photo of typical rosacea on face

Rosacea is a condition causing reddening and sensitivity of skin, with increased flushing and sometimes visible thread-like blood vessels in the areas of the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. There can also be red pimples/papules which can become inflamed and infected in more severe cases. Rosacea is more common in fair-skinned people. Rosacea often recurs so repeated courses of treatment and varying the treatment used may be necessary.

Rosacea is different from acne, and treatment is different. They can look similar, but in rosacea redness tends to come and go depending on factors like stress and heat, and stimulants such as spicy food and alcohol. In rosacea there are no blackheads and whiteheads, or the infected nodules found in severe acne. Rosacea is sometimes called acne rosacea, but this is a misleading name. Rosacea is not a type of acne.

The exact cause of rosacea is not known. Various genetic, immune system, and environmental causes, possibly including demodex mites (microscopic skin mites), are all thought to play a part. Disturbances of blood flow to the skin and chronic inflammation may be factors. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (sun or sunbeds) can sometimes aggravate rosacea.

See a doctor before treatment

People with troublesome facial redness should see a doctor before treatment. Not all facial redness is caused by rosacea - some is due to acne - and there are some other less common and potentially serious conditions, including infection, which need to be considered.

Further information

Rosacea treatments

There are several treatments to choose from depending on which features are causing the most problem and how severe the rosacea is.

It is best to use one type of treatment for at least two months before switching to another treatment or adding in a new one.

Dr Fox supplies the following rosacea treatments:

These are generally the most effective treatments, but dermatologists may sometimes use other treatments including different antibiotics.

How to choose which treatment is best for you

  • If redness and flushing are the main problem, Mirvaso gel is a good first choice. Mirvaso can also be used with any of the other treatments. Mirvaso (brimonidine) applied once daily lasts 12 hours.
  • If the main problem is mild inflammation, soreness and infected spots, choose either Soolantra cream or Rozex gel/cream. If skin is not improving after a couple of months, swap to the other one, or include another additional treatment. They work in slightly different ways, but they should not be used together. Some people find Soolantra cream slightly more effective. Soolantra (ivermectin) applied once daily, or Rozex (metronidazole antibiotic gel or cream) applied twice daily.
  • If the inflammation is more severe with more infected spots, or a two month trial of other treatment has not settled the condition, try adding in Efracea (doxycycline 40mg capsules) daily for 8-16 weeks. Efracea can be added to any of the other treatments.
  • General measures for all rosacea: avoid factors which can cause facial flushing, such as spicy food, sun and sunbed exposure, hot showers, overheated rooms, and in some cases alcohol. Don't use oily skin preparations - choose water based makeup and sunscreens, and particularly do not use topical steroids as they worsen things in the long term. Some people find that they can reduce facial redness for short periods by holding an ice block in their mouth, between the gum and cheek.
  • If symptoms are not improving, are worsening, or are causing severe psychological distress then consult a GP or dermatologist face-to-face.

Combining rosacea treatments

Combining rosacea treatments
Product Frequency Use with Mirvaso Use with Soolantra Use with Rozex Use with Efracea
Mirvaso gel Once daily n/a Yes Yes Yes
Soolantra cream Once daily Yes n/a No Yes
Rozex gel/cream Twice daily Yes No n/a Yes
Efracea capsules Once daily Yes Yes Yes n/a
  • Mirvaso can be used together with Soolantra or Rozex. Apply the Mirvaso first and allow it to dry, before applying Soolantra or Rozex.
  • Efracea can be taken at the same time as using Rozex or Soolantra, and Mirvaso.
  • It may be useful to take a photograph before and after using the treatments to gauge effectiveness.

If there is no improvement with the above treatments, a skin specialist/dermatologist may be consulted and they may recommend more specialist treatments such as oral isotretinoin, and pulsed light or laser therapy for persistent localised areas of redness (telangiectasia). Surgery may sometimes be advised for rhinophyma - a lumpy misshapen nose which can rarely occur in severe cases of rosacea in men.

Treatment plans

Mostly redness, flushing, and thread veins (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea)

  1. Initially try Mirvaso gel once daily in the mornings. This will reduce flushing and redness for up to 12 hours.
  2. If no help or worsening from Mirvaso - stop the treatment and take Efracea capsules once daily for up to 16 weeks.
  3. If no improvement after 6 weeks, stop Efracea capsules and consult a GP or dermatologist. If there is no improvement in redness and flushing then stop Mirvaso as well.

Mild to moderate spots and pimples (papulopustular rosacea)

  1. Initially try Soolantra cream once daily.
  2. If also redness and flushing add Mirvaso gel once daily in the mornings as necessary.
  3. If no improvement after 2 months swap, from Soolantra cream to Rozex gel twice daily.
  4. If still not resolved after 2 months, add Efracea capsules once daily for up to 4 months.
  5. If no improvement after 6 weeks, stop Efracea capsules and consult a GP or dermatologist.

Moderate to severe spots and pimples with inflammation and redness

  1. Start with Efracea capsules once daily for up to 4 months.
  2. If also redness and flushing, add Mirvaso gel once daily in the mornings as necessary.
  3. If no improvement after 6 weeks, stop Efracea capsules and consult a GP or dermatologist.

More severe rosacea

Severe rosacea includes thickening and swelling of the nose (rhinophyma), symptoms affecting the eyes (ocular), and associated psychological effects such as severe distress and social phobia. Consult a GP or dermatologist with these conditions and do not self treat.


Mirvaso gel

Mirvaso gel reduces the redness and facial flushing of rosacea by shrinking the blood vessels in the skin. Mirvaso gel contains the active ingredient brimonidine. It is applied thinly to the face once daily, preferably in the morning, and lessens the redness of rosacea quickly, usually within 30 minutes. It works for up to 12 hours. It should not be used more than once in a 24 hour period.

In studies 7 out of 10 people with rosacea had reduced redness 3 hours after applying Mirvaso. The improvement with Mirvaso lasts up to 12 hours (see detailed study data).

Mirvaso can actually worsen symptoms in 1 in 6 people and care must be taken when starting treatment - see details below. Worsening of redness can occur soon after Mirvaso is applied or later when the effects are wearing off (after 8-12 hours). In trials, the worsening redness settled for most people when they stopped using Mirvaso. Do not use Mirvaso again if it worsened the symptoms. Consult a GP/dermatologist if the worsening redness does not settle within a few days of stopping.

Side effects of Mirvaso gel (brimonidine)

The most common side effects, occurring in up to 16% of users, are flushing, reddening of the skin, a burning sensation and skin irritation. Other possible side effects include dry mouth, headache, low heart rate, low blood pressure and dizziness, and skin reactions, including worsening of rosacea. Mirvaso should not be applied to broken skin, particularly following laser therapy, as this is more likely to lead to severe side effects.

See manufacturer's Mirvaso patient information leaflet for full details.

How to start and use Mirvaso gel

Start treatment with a very small amount of gel (less than the maximum dose) for at least 1 week and increase the dose gradually to the full dose, based on tolerability and response to treatment.

Apply thinly and evenly once daily only over the affected areas of the face, avoiding the lips and eyes. The full dose is a pea-sized amount of gel for each of the reddened areas of the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Gel should not be applied to open sores. Wash hands thoroughly after use.

It is important not to exceed the maximum daily dose (which is 1gm of gel in total weight, approximately 5 pea-sized amounts). One tube should last a month.

Makeup can be applied once the gel has dried.

Consult a doctor face-to-face if symptoms are getting worse.

Who should NOT use Mirvaso gel

Checks are carried out during the Dr Fox online consultation to ensure Mirvaso gel is suitable.

Mirvaso gel is only for use by adults over 18, including over 65s, and NOT children.

Most people can use Mirvaso gel without significant side effects. Only a small amount of the active ingredient, brimonidine, is absorbed through the skin. Not suitable for people prone to low blood pressure or people with serious heart conditions. Some prescribed medicines can interact with Mirvaso gel, most notably medicines which lower blood pressure, and some types of antidepressants.

Although there is no evidence of harm, Mirvaso gel should be avoided in pregnant and breastfeeding women.


Soolantra cream

Soolantra cream (ivermectin) is used for mild/moderate inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea. Use once daily, initially for 3-4 months. If there is no improvement after 2-3 months, stop using Soolantra. The course can be repeated if symptoms reoccur on stopping. A break of 1 month is recommended after using for 12 months and to assess if further treatment is needed. It is only to be used by adults.

How to apply Soolantra cream

Only use on the face.

Use a pea-sized amount of the cream once daily only on each part of the face: forehead, chin, nose, and both cheeks. Spread thinly over the whole face, making sure to avoid eyes, lips, and mouth.

Wash hands after applying. Once dried, make up can be applied.

If using with Mirvaso gel: apply the Mirvaso gel first and allow that to dry, before applying Soolantra cream. Alternatively, use Mirvaso gel in the morning and Soolantra cream in the evening.

Side effects of Soolantra cream

Rarely there is a slight worsening of rosacea on starting treatment but this usually settles within a week. If it continues, stop using Soolantra cream.

Up to 1 in 10 people feel some initial burning on application. This usually settles as your skin gets used to the treatment.

For a full list of less common side effects see manufacturer's Soolantra patient information leaflet.

Can anyone use Soolantra cream?

Do not use if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • have severe liver problems.
  • Are under 18.

Do not use Soolantra cream if taking these medications:

  • Warfarin or other coumarin type blood thinning tablets (anticoagulants where you need regular blood tests).
  • Levamisole (rarely used to treat roundworm infection).

Further detail available from the manufacturer's website: How to Use SOOLANTRA Cream (US audience).


Rozex gel and cream

Rozex (metronidazole) is used for mild to moderate inflammatory pimples, papules, redness, and pustules (spots) of rosacea. Use twice daily, morning and evening. An average course of treatment is 3-4 months. If there is no improvement after 2-3 months, stop and try a different treatment. Always use the least amount and for the shortest time required. Courses can be repeated or continued.

How to apply Rozex

  • Wash the face with a mild cleanser before applying the Rozex gel or cream.
  • Smooth a thin layer onto the affected skin only.
  • Keep Rozex out of eyes (rinse well with large amounts of water if it gets in the eyes).
  • Wash hands after use.

If using with Mirvaso gel: apply the Mirvaso gel first and once dried apply Rozex.

Side effects of Rozex

All medicines can cause side effects but not everyone gets them.

Very small amounts of Rozex will be absorbed into the body, so the most common side effects will be skin related.

Up to 1 in 10 people may develop dry skin, redness, itching, burning or stinging feelings, or worsening of rosacea. If the skin is irritated, it should settle by using Rozex less frequently (such as once a day or on alternate days), or stopping it for a while.

More information on side effects can be found in the manufacturer's Rozex patient information leaflet.

Sun and sunbeds

Keep skin out of strong sunlight and avoid exposure to ultraviolet light (sun & sunbeds) as this can make Rozex less effective.

Rozex gel and alcohol

Metronidazole, the active ingredient in Rozex, taken by mouth can react with alcohol, causing an unpleasant Antabuse type reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, dizziness, throbbing headache, chest and abdominal discomfort). This is unlikely with Rozex because it is only applied to the skin. However, it is still advised not to drink alcohol whilst using Rozex.

When not to use Rozex

Do not use Rozex if:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Under 18.
  • You suffer from any type of blood disorder.
  • Taking warfarin or other coumarin type blood thinning tablets (anticoagulants where you need regular blood tests).

Efracea capsules

Efracea capsules are an effective treatment for moderate to severe papules and pustules (spots) of rosacea, improving appearances in over 8 out of 10 patients.

Efracea capsules should only be used after first trying a topical treatment (skin application) such as Soolantra cream or Rozex gel/cream for at least 3 months.

Efracea capsules contain a low dose (40mg) of doxycycline, and work through the anti-inflammatory (not antibiotic) effects of doxycycline.

The course is 8-16 weeks but if there is no improvement by 6 weeks stop taking the capsules.

After finishing the course, some symptoms may gradually recur. Wait at least 1 month, before repeating the course.

How to take Efracea capsules

Take one capsule a day in the morning.

Take it on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, either one hour before or two hours after food.

Can anyone take Efracea capsules?

Do not take Efracea if you are/have:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 12 years old.
  • Taking certain other medications - checks made in the online consultation.
  • Exposed to strong sunlight/sunbeds.
  • Reduced stomach acidity, or pre-existing gullet irritation/ulceration.
  • Liver disease, colitis, myasthenia gravis, ocular rosacea.

Side effects of Efracea

All medications can cause side effects. Possible side effects listed by the manufacturer for Efracea are those found at any dose of doxycycline. As Efracea contains a low dose of doxycycline, side effects are generally not common. They can include stomach problems such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting & diarrhoea, and light sensitive skin reactions and rashes.

More information on side effects can be found in the manufacturer's Efracea patient information leaflet.

Buy treatment

Dr Fox supplies rosacea medication on prescription - you are required to answer a short medical questionnaire before your order can be completed.

Dr Tony Steele

Authored 27 September 2014 by Dr Tony Steele
MB ChB Sheffield University 1983. Former hospital doctor and GP. GMC no. 2825328

Reviewed by Dr A. Wood, Dr C. Pugh, Dr B. Babor
Last reviewed 19 May 2021
Last updated 19 January 2024
Editorial policy

References

  1. Medical questions
  2. Choose treatment
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Answer medical questions to order(rosacea)

Honest & accurate responses are necessary for safe medical assessment

Have you read the rosacea medical information?

Please read the medical information before continuing.

Are you aware you should see a doctor for a diagnosis of rosacea BEFORE using rosacea treatments?

Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?

Are you aware gels and creams for rosacea should not be applied close to the eyes or lips or to open sores?

Are you taking warfarin or other coumarin type blood thinning tablets, or do you have any type of blood disorder?

There is an interaction with Rozex and Efracea.

Are you aware Mirvaso can cause worsening of symptoms in up to 16% of people?

  • Worsening of redness can occur soon after Mirvaso is applied or later when the effects are wearing off (after 8-12 hrs). Stop using if it worsens symptoms. Most people recover on stopping treatment.
  • Mirvaso should be built-up gradually to avoid worsening rosacea.
  • Mirvaso usually improves symptoms in 70% of people - it does not work for everyone.

Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition causing significant low blood pressure?

This applies mainly to severe uncontrolled heart disease.

Have you been diagnosed with any of the following:

  • Depression, or are taking an antidepressant.
  • Liver or kidney disease - not including simple water infections.
  • Sjorgen's syndrome (uncommon immune condition causing dry skin).
  • Poor circulation to the hands or feet.

Are you aware Mirvaso should be stopped and a doctor consulted if symptoms are worsening or you experience side effects?

Are you aware Soolantra cream may worsen symptoms in the first week but this should settle?

Are you taking Levamisole?

Levamisole is rarely used to treat roundworm infection. There is an interaction with Soolantra.

Are you allergic to doxycycline or tetracycline antibiotics?

Do you have rosacea affecting the eyes?

Have you been diagnosed with colitis or myasthenia gravis?

Do you have reduced stomach acidity, or oesophageal (gullet) irritation/ulceration, or are you taking medication to reduce stomach acid?

E.g. antacid medication, Gaviscon, omeprazole, lansoprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole.

Are you aware that you should not use sunbeds or expose skin to strong sunlight whilst taking Efracea capsules?

There is an increased risk of skin reactions if taking Efracea whilst using sunbeds or exposing the skin to strong sunlight. Strong sunlight and sunbeds can also worsen rosacea.

Are you taking any of the following?

These medications interact with Efracea:

  • Rifampicin (tuberculosis)
  • Barbiturates (sedatives)
  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone (epilepsy)
  • Lithium (mood stabiliser)
  • Retinoids e.g. isotretinoin, alitretinoin, acitretin (acne, psoriasis or severe rosacea)
  • Cyclosporin (organ transplant)
  • Penicillin type antibiotics e.g. amoxicillin
  • Sulphonylurea drugs (diabetes) e.g. gliclazide

Do you have any further medical information or questions?

Is there anything you do not understand or do you need further help?

Do all the following apply to you?

  • The medication is for my own use and I will not share with anyone else
  • I will read the information leaflet supplied with the medication
  • I am over 18 and I agree to identity verification checks
  • I have completed this questionnaire myself and fully understand all the information
  • My responses are honest and accurate, and I understand that this is necessary for a safe medical assessment
  • I agree to the terms & conditions, privacy policy, data sharing policy & consent to cookies

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