Rosacea is a common skin disorder characterized by facial redness and visible blood vessels. These signs and symptoms may appear for weeks to months before disappearing. Rosacea is often confused with acne, other skin conditions, or natural redness.
Rosacea can strike anyone at any time. However, it’s more common in light-skinned middle-aged women. Although there is no cure for rosacea, therapy and proper care can help to regulate and lessen the symptoms.
Although the cause of rosacea is unknown, certain factors can exacerbate symptoms. The following are some of the most common rosacea triggers:
Hot beverages
Heat, in any form, is a typical trigger of rosacea flare-ups. Cut back or eliminate your intake of hot liquids including coffee, tea, hot cider, and hot chocolate. It’s important to note that it’s the temperature in these drinks that causes the flare ups and not the ingredients themselves.
Spicy foods
Spicy foods heat up the skin and increase risk of a rosacea flare- up. Chili peppers, jalapenos and hot sauces are among a few examples that you should tend to avoid.
Dairy
Diary is part of an inflammatory food group that promotes redness and swelling. It’s recommended to limit your intake of yogurt, milk and cheese. However, since there are several diary substitutes today, there is always an alternative to your dairy cravings.
Histamine-rich foods
Histamine causes your red blood vessels to dilate, resulting in rosacea flare-ups. Avoid citrus fruits, legumes, chocolate, and nuts since they contain histamines.
Alcohol
Alcohol dilates blood vessels and increases your chances of developing rosacea. Red wine and strong liquor are among the most common culprits. Red wine, in particular, includes tyramines, a histamine-like molecule that causes blood vessels to widen even more.
Rosacea is not contagious and is not caused by improper hygiene. However, there are certain things you can do to alleviate symptoms. If you know that a trigger makes your symptoms worse, such as alcohol or spicy food, try to avoid it as much as possible.
Things to Do
- Wear a high-SPF sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, and avoid heat, sunlight, and humid situations if at all feasible
- When it's freezing outside, try to keep your face hidden.
- For sensitive skin, use gentle skincare products.
- If you have blepharitis, clean your eyelids at least once a day.
- Make a plan to deal or avoid stress
Things to Avoid
- Don't drink alcoholic beverages
- Avoid consuming hot beverages
- Limit your caffeine intake (found in tea, coffee and chocolate)
- Avoid cheese at all costs
- Avoid eating spicy foods
- Avoid doing too much cardiovascular exercise, such as running