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Winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin. Dry, cold air doesn’t leave the same dewy glow as the warm summer sun, and rosacea sufferers may find winter especially challenging. Along with dry, cracked skin, you might notice angry red patches appearing on your nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin.
Rosacea is particularly prone to weather changes. Understanding what causes winter flare-ups is the first step toward preventing them, so you can enjoy clear, radiant skin all winter long.
At Hines Dermatology Associates in Attleboro, Massachusetts, Yvonne Hines, MD, and our clinical team work with you to mitigate the effects of winter rosacea triggers on your skin. Here are a few reasons why your rosacea worsens this season — plus, what we can do about it.
With the warmth of summer giving way to chilly weather, nothing sounds better than a piping-hot drink. While most people get a little red when they consume hot drinks, these beverages can trigger a pronounced flush and increase inflammation in people who have rosacea.
Wait for your hot drinks to cool down a bit before you enjoy them, or consider switching to room-temperature or lukewarm beverages. This simple adjustment can minimize flare-ups and reduce the redness and inflammation, keeping your skin calmer during the winter months.
Winter’s harsh winds irritate the blood vessels in your face, triggering a flare-up. If you’re worried about redness, try to stay indoors when it’s windy outside. Always shield your skin outdoors by wearing a scarf, hat, and other protective clothing.
Sun is one of rosacea’s biggest triggers. You might think the sun is less harmful during winter, but ultraviolet (UV) rays can still penetrate clouds and reflect off snow, intensifying their impact on sensitive skin.
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the irritation that leads to flare-ups. Even when it’s cold and overcast, you can keep your complexion healthy.
Cold winter air can leave your skin dry and tight, making it more susceptible to rosacea flare-ups. Combat dryness by using a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer for sensitive skin.
Apply it daily, especially after cleansing, to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin's protective barrier. Some moisturizers may include sunscreen. Consider adding a hydrating serum or using a gentle facial oil to boost moisture retention.
Staying hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water also helps keep your skin supple and reduces irritation, allowing you to better manage rosacea symptoms.
Our clinical team can develop a personalized rosacea treatment plan that protects your skin through winter and beyond. Call our office in Attleboro today or book an appointment online.
