Abstract

The pathogenesis of rosacea remains unclear but has been reported to correlate with skin barrier function. The objective of this study was to elucidate the skincare habits of Chinese adolescents and determine the relationship between skincare habits and rosacea. A university-based cross-sectional investigation included 310 rosacea cases and 3,129 healthy controls who underwent health examinations and completed a questionnaire about daily skincare habits. Fitzpatrick skin phototype IV is a protective factor against rosacea (adjusted adds ratio (aOR) 0.40; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.22-0.72). Long bath duration (≥ 11 min, aOR 2.60; 95% CI 1.01-6.72) and frequent use of facial cleansers (≥ 2 times/day, aOR 1.70; 95% CI 1.17-2.36) were positively associated with rosacea, but bath frequency (p = 0.22), water temperature (p = 0.53), and sun protection (p = 0.65) were not associated with rosacea. Inappropriate skincare habits, including extended bath durations and frequent use of facial cleansers, significantly increase the risk of rosacea in Chinese adolescents.