Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects mainly the face. The first signs of rosacea may be redness or blushing that comes and goes initially. Over time, the redness may become persistent and more visible. The most common sites for symptoms are the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Sometimes, rosacea may involve the eyes as well, and include symptoms such as blood-shot eyes that feel gritty. Over half of rosacea sufferers may experience eye symptoms. A number of lifestyles factors can cause rosacea to flare up. These triggers vary from person to person, so it is both important and helpful to find out which ones make your rosacea symptoms flare up. Knowing this can help you to better manage your condition and to avoid things that can potentially aggravate your skin.
- Common rosacea triggers are cosmetic products with fragrance, alcohols, abrasives or other irritating ingredients. Choose only gentle products.
- Food and Drinks that affect rosacea include in: hot drinks such as soup and hot chocolate caffeinated beverages, such as tea or coffee, spicy seasonings such as pepper, paprika, red pepper and cayenne, alcohol, and especially red wine.
- Intense exercise by overheating the body can trigger flushing, divide vigorous exercises into shorter sessions. Stay cool while working out.
- Certain medications that cause flushing can cause flare-ups. Drugs such as ACE-inhibitors and some cholesterol-lowering drugs (i.e. niacin) may play a role. Extended use of prescription-strength cortisone creams on the face can worsen rosacea symptoms.
- Stress, or emotional upset, is one of the most common triggers associated with rosacea flare-ups. Manage stress by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, deep breathing and stretching, and eating a healthy diet.
- Extremely hot or cold weather exposure to wind, hot baths, showers and saunas, UV exposure wear sun protection (SPF 30 or higher) daily. Sunblock may be better for people with sensitive skin. Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.