The good news is that rosacea can go into remission, which is a period when symptoms disappear. Still, because rosacea is a chronic condition, symptoms can return.
Keep in mind that anything that increases blood flow to the facial area can exacerbate this condition.
Once you’re diagnosed with rosacea, you may be able to reduce your flares by understanding your triggers. Here are some typical ones.
Hot Drinks and Spicy Foods
Both of these can increase blood flow to your face and cause flushing or skin redness. But while spicy foods and hot drinks are triggers for some people with rosacea, they don’t affect everyone with the condition.
To help identify which food and drinks to avoid, keep a journal and make a note of everything you consume. Does your rosacea worsen or flare after eating or drinking certain things? If so, eliminate these items and see if your condition improves.
Alcohol
Alcohol doesn’t cause rosacea, but alcoholic beverages can cause dilated blood vessels in your skin, resulting in flushing and redness, says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, California.
For this reason, you should avoid any alcoholic beverage that triggers a flare, such as red wine, beer, gin, champagne, or vodka.
Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures (hot or cold) can also trigger rosacea. You might notice worsening symptoms when you’re overheated or after exposure to cold air or wind.
Avoiding hot baths or saunas, as well as protecting your skin from cold air can potentially limit flares.
Exposure to Sunlight
High-Histamine Foods
High-histamine foods, such as aged cheeses, shellfish, legumes, and smoked meats, among others, can also cause dilated blood vessels, which can worsen symptoms or trigger a new flare. Avoiding these foods may improve the appearance of your skin. Again, use a food journal to pinpoint possible food triggers.
Cosmetics
“Rosacea-prone people tend to have sensitive skin and are more likely to react to various ingredients and chemicals in personal skin care products,” says Dr. Shainhouse. This can include products containing alcohol, camphor, urea, or menthol.
Look for fragrance-free versions instead, says Shainhouse, and use a mild cleanser on your face. Also, be gentle — don’t scrub or rub your skin too roughly. This can exacerbate redness.
Stress
Other reported rosacea triggers include hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), and certain medications, like corticosteroids (steroids) or vasodilators prescribed to treat high blood pressure.
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