How to Prevent Rosacea Flare-Ups
You may be able to control the redness of rosacea by preventing increased blood flow to the cheeks and avoiding things that can irritate the skin. Here are some tips:
- Don’t scrub, rub or massage your face – When washing your face or applying sunscreen or lotion, do it gently. Scrubbing can irritate the skin and make it redder.
- Avoid hot drinks, spicy foods and alcoholic drinks – These can increase redness.
- Protect your skin from the sun – Regularly use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects from UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 30 or higher, and wear a hat and protective clothing.
- Avoid becoming overheated – Take warm, not hot, showers and baths, and exercise when it’s cool.
- Protect your skin from the extreme cold – Cover it in the winter when it’s very cold.
- Don’t use lotions, cosmetics or soaps that contain irritating ingredients – Try to avoid alcohol, fragrance, eucalyptus, menthol, peppermint and witch hazel.
- Keep hairspray off your face – It can irritate your skin.
To determine your specific triggers, keep a diary. When you notice your face flushing, write down foods you’ve eaten, products you’ve used, medications you’ve taken and any activities that you did before the flushing occurred.
Next: Treating Rosacea
