The Naturopathic Co.
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Rosacea and gut health might seem unrelated, but their potential relationship has become an interesting area of research.
Gastrointestinal conditions appear to occur more frequently in some populations with rosacea, and researchers have specifically investigated a possible association between rosacea and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO.
So should everyone with rosacea be treating their gut?
No.
But if your rosacea occurs alongside bloating, abdominal distension or altered bowel habits, the relationship is worth exploring. For a broader overview, see our guide to the gut-skin connection.
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition typically affecting the central face.
Its causes are complex and may involve immune dysregulation, vascular changes, genetics, environmental triggers and microorganisms associated with the skin.
At the same time, the gastrointestinal system can influence immune and inflammatory signalling throughout the body.
This relationship sits within the broader gut-skin axis.
SIBO occurs when excessive or inappropriate populations of microorganisms are present in the small intestine.
Symptoms may include:
Research has found associations between SIBO and rosacea, and some studies have investigated whether treating confirmed SIBO influences rosacea symptoms.
However, this does not establish SIBO as the universal cause of rosacea.
No.
Testing should be driven by the clinical picture.
Someone with facial redness but absolutely no gastrointestinal symptoms may require a very different assessment from someone experiencing rosacea, severe bloating and altered bowel movements after meals.
Read more about SIBO and skin problems if gastrointestinal symptoms are a major part of your presentation.
Alcohol, fermented foods and certain other foods are frequently reported rosacea triggers.
Histamine is sometimes discussed as one possible mechanism behind food-related flushing, but not every flushing reaction represents histamine intolerance.
If you experience flushing, hives, itching and digestive symptoms after particular foods, our guide to histamine intolerance and the gut-skin connection explores this separately.
Dermatological assessment remains important, particularly with persistent or worsening rosacea.
From a naturopathic perspective, we can simultaneously investigate whether digestive symptoms, dietary patterns, stress, alcohol, hormonal factors or other individual triggers appear relevant, drawing on nutritional medicine and herbal medicine where appropriate.
For people experiencing significant gastrointestinal symptoms, our naturopathic gut health clinic in Melbourne offers in-person consultations in South Yarra alongside Telehealth.
We also work with people seeking Sydney gut health support through Australia-wide Telehealth consultations.
With 180+ verified five-star Google reviews, our naturopaths and nutritionists offer comprehensive 60-minute initial consultations, in person in South Yarra, Melbourne, or via telehealth across Australia. Book your consultation with The Naturopathic Co. today.
