Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness and pustules that most often affect the central part of the face. Often mistaken for other skin conditions such as acne or eczema, rosacea affects an estimated 16 million Americans including many of our patients. Although there is no cure for rosacea, treatments can reduce skin inflammation and relieve symptoms. Treatments include IPL(intense pulse light), mild chemical peel, skincare products and oral medications.
Here are some triggers to avoid if you suffer from Rosacea.
- Sunlight
Sun exposure is the leading trigger for rosacea flare-ups. The sun dilates blood vessels and increases the temperature of the skin, contributing to redness and flushing.
Tip: Avoid direct sun exposure for extended periods of time. Wear a hat and SPF! - Emotional stress
Second only to sun exposure, stress is an extremely common trigger for rosacea symptoms. Patients are much more likely to experience flares following an emotionally stressful event. Stress causes the body to release various chemicals linked to abnormal skin reactions in patients with rosacea.
Tip: Manage stress by trying these practices: meditation, light exercise and mindfulness. - Hot weather
Individuals with rosacea experience an abnormal chemical and physical response when exposed to high temperatures and humidity. In patients with rosacea, there’s increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system in response to triggers such as heat. The rate of blood flow through the skin, heart rate, and sweating are all higher than normal in patients with rosacea in response to warm temperatures, contributing to flare-ups.
Tip: Heat is hard to avoid here in Florida! On really hot days, try to stay cool, avoid going outdoors during peak hours of heat, wear a hat to avoid direct sun exposure. - Heavy exercise
As with heat and hot weather, individuals with rosacea react abnormally to heavy exercise. Physical activity increases heart rate and raises body temperature, sending the nervous system into overdrive.
Tip: This is a tough one, physical exercise is great for our bodies, but is tricky when you have rosacea. Try to keep the face cool, avoid direct sun exposure while exercising and if recommended, use an anti-oxidant like Vitamin C after to help calm the skin. - Alcohol
For individuals with rosacea, a glass of wine or beer may trigger symptoms. A significant number of people with rosacea (over 50%) report alcohol as a common cause of flare-ups. Alcohol dilates blood vessels and may cause the face to flush.
Tip: Limiting alcohol, especially when having a flare-up, can help keep the redness away. Try replacing alcohol with kombucha or a non-alcoholic wine.
Let us know if you need help treating Rosacea symptoms or if you think you may have Rosacea and want a diagnosis. We are here to help!