Sleep quality makes a big impact on one’s health — but what about its impact on rosacea? In a recent National Rosacea Society survey, 830 rosacea patients shared their experiences with sleep—whether they get enough or not, if a good night’s sleep helps with symptoms, and more. A little over a third (40.5%) said rosacea negatively affected their ability to get enough sleep. On the other hand, around two thirds (61.4%) said getting a good night’s sleep improved their symptoms. At base, it all depends on the individual.

While rosacea may not affect every patient’s sleep habits, it certainly doesn’t improve sleep. Unsurprisingly, about half of respondents (52.3%) said they had trouble sleeping while experiencing a flare-up. Flare-ups are often sparked by stress factors, including a lack of sleep, potentially creating a vicious circle. As one respondent commented, “My flare-ups impact my confidence and self-esteem… The emotional toll of rosacea impacts my sleep—not the physical flare-up itself.”

The survey concluded with the question, Has medical therapy for rosacea helped improve your ability to sleep?, to which 73.6% of respondents responded “no.” Some patients, however, noted their current therapy and treatment wasn’t geared toward helping with the quality or effect of their sleep habits. Other mitigating factors may also be involved: 40.0% of those surveyed reported suffering from insomnia, and 28.8% reported having sleep apnea or another obstructive breathing issue.