Skip to main content

Rosacea Triggers You Should Be Aware Of

Rosacea Triggers You Should Be Aware Of

Rosacea isn’t as well known as other skin conditions like acne and eczema, but it’s common. One study found that 415 million people worldwide deal with this chronic, incurable illness.

Rosacea is often harder to diagnose because it’s confused with other common skin conditions, such as an allergic reaction. So the global numbers may actually be higher. The good news for those with rosacea is it can be managed, if you know what triggers your flare-ups. 

At three New York City locations, Dr. Javier Zelaya and the skilled medical team at Skinworks Dermatology can help you manage many skin conditions, including rosacea.

Facts about rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by visible redness on your face and sometimes small, pus-filled bumps. These symptoms, known as flare-ups, usually come and go.

The root cause of rosacea isn’t well understood. Possible causes include an overactive immune system, environmental factors, and genetics. Other threats include skin mites and bacteria. 

Rosacea isn’t linked to hygiene, isn’t contagious, and is more common in women than men. Smoking, having skin that burns easily in direct sunlight, and being a woman over 30 increase your chances of getting rosacea.

Symptoms of rosacea

In addition to redness and bumps, symptoms of rosacea can include:

If you have darker skin, a rosacea flare-up may also include a feeling of warmth in your skin and hard, yellowish bumps around the mouth or eyes.

Be aware of rosacea triggers

To avoid rosacea flare-ups, it helps to know what triggers to look for:

Foods

Hot foods and drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and dairy products can cause rosacea flare-ups. Other possible triggers include seasonings that contain capsaicin, like hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and red pepper, and foods with cinnamaldehyde, such as chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus.

Environmental factors

Extreme hot or cold, sunlight, humidity, and wind can trigger rosacea. 

Physical factors

Intense exercise can trigger a rosacea flare-up, as can being in a sauna or hot bath. 

Emotional factors

Rosacea has been linked to stress and other emotional responses like anxiety, anger, and embarrassment.

Medications

Corticosteroids and medications to treat hypertension can also lead to outbreaks on your skin by increasing blood flow just beneath the surface. 

Medical conditions

Ironically, hypertension can also trigger rosacea, along with colds, coughing, and fevers.

Treatment options for rosacea

Remember, rosacea isn’t curable, so treating it mainly focuses on managing symptoms and triggers. 

Treatment varies depending on the severity of your condition, but options include medications — topical medications, oral antibiotics, and oral acne drugs — and lifestyle changes — avoiding triggers, protecting your face from the elements, and taking care of your skin. 

Laser therapy can make enlarged blood vessels less visible.

You may have to live with rosacea, but you don’t have to live with the symptoms. To get help, call the Skinworks Dermatology office in Maspeth, Chelsea, or Park Slope, or book your visit online.

You Might Also Enjoy...

How Much Botox Is Too Much?

Botox® injections are a safe and effective way to address a number of cosmetic and medical needs, but only if performed under safe conditions and in the proper dosage. Read on to find out how much Botox is too much.
Will I Pass On Eczema to My Kids?

Will I Pass On Eczema to My Kids?

Millions struggle with atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema. This skin condition has several causes, but is genetics one of them? Is it a condition you’re likely to pass on to your children? Read on to find out more.
5 Psoriasis Signs to Take Seriously

5 Psoriasis Signs to Take Seriously

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that affects millions, and it’s often associated with other conditions. If you think you may have psoriasis, here are signs to look for.
Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal: Which Is Right for Me?

Waxing vs. Laser Hair Removal: Which Is Right for Me?

Humans don’t grow hair everywhere, but we do in enough places that unwanted hair is still a problem. Waxing has long been the way to get rid of that hair, but laser hair removal is a new, effective option. Which one is right for you?