7 Simple Ways to Reduce Rosacea Flare-ups

April marks Rosacea Awareness Month, a perfect time to learn more about this chronic skin condition that affects 415 million people worldwide. Rosacea causes redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts that can lead to frustration and a loss of self-confidence. 

Most people with rosacea experience flare-ups and periods of remission.

While rosacea doesn’t cause serious health issues, the effect on your skin can be distressing. At Hines Dermatology Associates, skin specialist Yvonne Hines, MD, has extensive experience finding effective solutions for even the toughest cases of rosacea. 

Following a thorough consultation, Dr. Hines creates an individualized treatment plan to tackle your rosacea and restore clear skin. If you’re struggling with flare-ups, there are some things you can do. 

1. Identify and avoid your triggers

When it comes to rosacea, some common environmental and lifestyle factors can contribute to flares. It’s a good idea to start with avoiding the most common triggers, including:

• Sun exposure
• Hot weather
• Stress
• Spicy foods
• Skin care products

You may also have some triggers that are unique to you. Keep a diary to track your flare-ups and the activities, foods, or products you use. 

It’s especially important to track any products in your daily skin care routine. Certain ingredients in skin care products can trigger rosacea flares. Identifying patterns can help you avoid these triggers and keep your skin calm.

2. Protect your skin from the sun

For many patients with rosacea, sun exposure is a major trigger. It’s important to protect your skin by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Use it daily, even when it's cloudy. 

Wear hats and opt for shaded areas whenever possible to minimize direct sunlight on your face, significantly reducing the likelihood of flare-ups.

3. Be gentle with your skin

Treat your skin with care. Use gentle, non-abrasive cleansers and avoid scrubbing your face, which can aggravate rosacea. 

Choose skin care and makeup products labeled "non-comedogenic," "sensitive-skin friendly," or "fragrance-free". These are less likely to cause irritation. Being gentle with your skin means you’re less likely to trigger a flare-up.

4. Manage stress effectively

Stress is a well-known rosacea trigger. Incorporate stress-reducing practices into your daily routine, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or any activity that helps you relax. Managing stress can reduce the frequency and severity of rosacea flares, and help you feel better overall.

5. Watch your diet

Certain foods and beverages can trigger rosacea flare-ups. Chocolate, hot drinks, caffeine, and niacin-rich foods are common culprits. Some patients find that limiting high histamine foods is helpful during a flare. 

Histamine-rich foods include:

• Fermented foods
• Aged cheese
• Citrus fruits
• Eggplant
• Avocado
• Packaged meat

Keep a close eye on how your skin reacts to different foods and limit or avoid the foods that cause flare-ups. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3-rich fish, leafy greens, and nuts can also support skin health.

6. Avoid extreme temperatures

Extremes in temperature, from hot weather to cold winds, can aggravate rosacea. Protect your face in cold weather by covering up with a scarf, and avoid hot environments, such as saunas or very warm rooms, as much as possible. 

Additionally, when bathing or washing your face, use lukewarm water instead of hot to prevent flare-ups.

7. Seek professional help

If your rosacea is persistent or worsening, Dr. Hines can help. Treatments that include topical creams, oral medications, and laser therapy can significantly reduce the symptoms of rosacea. Dr. Hines also provides personalized advice tailored to your individual set of circumstances.

If you’re dealing with stubborn rosacea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hines. Contact our Attleboro, Massachusetts, office to get started today.