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What Triggers Rosacea? A Dermatologist’s Guide to Managing Flare-Ups

Rosacea symptoms can come and go, even after your skin has calmed down. In addition to learning about rosacea treatments from Berman Skin Institute (BSI), a few daily habits and lifestyle changes can help you manage your triggers.

What Triggers Rosacea, and How Can You Manage Flare-Ups?

Manage rosacea flare-ups with these tips for the most common triggers:

  • Sunlight: Sun exposure is a common trigger for rosacea. Limit time outside during peak sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen before heading outdoors.
  • Cold weather: For some people, cold weather and wind can also trigger rosacea-related redness. Covering up with a scarf and applying moisturizer in cold weather can help.
  • Foods: Spicy foods trigger flare-ups for some people, while hot drinks or alcohol may affect others. Track what you eat and drink for a few months to spot patterns between your diet and your skin.
  • Strong emotions: Stress can contribute to rosacea flare-ups for some people. Mindfulness, movement, balanced meals and enough sleep may help you support your overall well-being. Talk with a provider if stress feels overwhelming.
  • Heat: Hot weather can trigger rosacea flare-ups for some people. When possible, stay in air-conditioned or shaded spaces, sip cool water and use a wet cloth if your face feels warm.
  • Exercise: Staying active is essential to good health, but for some people living with rosacea, heavy exercise can trigger symptoms. When you work out, take breaks as needed and stay in a cool environment to avoid overheating.
  • Skin products: Look for gentle, fragrance-free skin products and cosmetics intended for sensitive skin, and ask your provider if you’re unsure which products are right for you. A simple routine with moisturizer and sun protection may help support your skin barrier without adding products that could trigger irritation.

Work With a Dermatology Provider to Manage Rosacea

If you have rosacea, a dermatologist can help you diagnose your condition and find rosacea treatments that work for your skin. Since triggers for rosacea vary widely, working with your primary care provider or dermatology provider can also help you identify allergies, underlying conditions or medications that may affect your symptoms.

Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Rosacea Treatments

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BSI has a team of providers, including dermatologists and dedicated skin care specialists in Northern California. With a patient-first, physician-led practice, we combine advanced technology and current research to empower you with information and treatments to help you manage conditions such as rosacea.

Schedule an appointment today.

Author

Picture of Dr. Julia Arzeno, MD, FAAD

Dr. Julia Arzeno, MD, FAAD

Dr. Julia Arzeno is a board-certified dermatologist and the Medical Director at Berman Skin Institute in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a distinguished academic background from UCLA and specialized training in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, she has successfully completed over 2000 Mohs procedures.

Dr. Arzeno is dedicated to providing personalized patient care and is actively involved in dermatologic research, contributing to numerous publications and presentations in her field.

Her commitment to advancing dermatology and enhancing patient outcomes reflects her passion for exceptional medical service. This content has been medically reviewed by a qualified medical professional.

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