What triggers rosacea?

A trigger is anything that causes the flushing, blushing and skin changes of rosacea. Often a change in body temperature — usually getting hotter — is involved.  Rosacea may be triggered by a variety of environmental and lifestyle factors as well.

Environmental triggers could include:

• Sun — Sun protection, especially for the face, is a must for rosacea sufferers.
• Cold weather — Canada’s winters are not kind to those with rosacea. Dry, cold air is harsh on the skin and triggers flare-ups and flushing.
• Hot, indoor spaces — Warm, crowded places can easily trigger a rosacea outbreak.

Lifestyle triggers could include:

• Alcohol — Avoid or minimize alcohol as this is a common trigger. Red wine is a frequently reported culprit.
• Spicy food — Curries and foods, dressings, or sauces made with chillies and hot or peppery spices or flavourings can trigger outbreaks.
• Emotions — Stress is a major cause of rosacea flare-ups.
• Skincare — Products that irritate the skin (sting or burn) including those containing alcohol and witch hazel.
• Exercise — Heavy exercise can easily trigger rosacea symptoms.
• Hot baths or saunas — Hot baths, showers, saunas, or hot tubs can bring on flushing.
• Hot drinks — Very hot drinks are a sure way to feel hot and set off flushing.