Current Clinical Perspectives on Rosacea Management: Insights From a Korean Multicenter Expert Opinion Survey

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by erythema, papules, ocular symptoms, and heightened sensitivity. Patients with neurogenic symptoms such as burning or stinging remain particularly difficult to manage. Current guidelines often underrepresent energy-based devices (EBDs), pigmentary sequelae, psychosocial burden, and ocular comorbidities.

To examine Korean dermatologists' expert perspectives on rosacea management, focusing on skin sensitivity, neurogenic symptoms, pigmentary changes, psychosocial impact, ocular involvement, and EBD use.

A web-based, 29-item survey was administered to 25 board-certified Korean dermatologists (May-June 2025). Quantitative and qualitative responses were analyzed.

Erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular phenotypes with sensitivity skin predominated. EBDs (pulsed dye laser, intense pulsed light) were frequently used but limited by cost and sensitivity issues. Neurogenic symptoms were recognized but rarely treated with neuromodulators. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was infrequent, yet monitoring was inconsistent. Psychosocial and ocular aspects were acknowledged but seldomly systematically addressed. Respondents expressed interest in emerging adjunctive treatments such as cold plasma, skin boosters, and holistic care approaches.

Korean dermatologists adopt individualized strategies for rosacea, yet practice gaps remain regarding neurogenic symptoms, pigmentary complications, and psychosocial and ocular comorbidities. Findings support the need for updated multidisciplinary, phenotype-driven guidelines aligned with real-world practice.