Keep Your Spring Free from Rosacea Flare-Ups
Keep Your Spring Free from Rosacea Flare-Ups
This April, Rosacea Awareness Month, we’re offering a few tips to help keep spring rosacea flare-up to a minimum
Spring brings warmer temperatures, longer days and more sunshine—welcome changes after the long winter season. But for those with rosacea, which is a common skin condition that causes blushing, flushing and visible blood vessels in the face, the change in season can also lead to flare-ups.
April is Rosacea Awareness month, so now is the perfect time to learn how to minimize flare-ups for a symptom-free spring season.
Know Your Triggers.
Rosacea triggers may vary from person to person, but common culprits include sunlight, heat, stress, alcohol, and spicy foods. Working with your skin care provider to identify your personal triggers and create a plan for avoiding or lessening their effects is crucial.
Take Precautions.
Knowing your triggers can help you take precautions to lessen their effects. Wearing sunscreen, regardless of how much time you plan to spend outdoors, is always a good practice. But if sun exposure has proven to be a trigger for you, add a wide-brimmed hat and other clothing that helps to block the sun. Be sure to choose a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30 and choose a formula for sensitive skin or a mineral sunscreen if regular sunscreen irritates your skin. If it’s a windy or extremely hot day, try to limit your time outdoors to prevent increased flare-ups.
Keep Your Skin Hydrated.
The key to avoiding rosacea flare-ups is keeping your skin’s natural barrier intact. That can be a little more difficult during a transitional season like spring, so make sure you’re applying a good moisturizer and drinking enough water.. Avoid harsh cleansers and look for quality moisturizers that hydrate but don’t irritate. Good choices will include hyaluronic acid and ceramides while avoiding potential irritants like retinol and glycolic acid.
Opt for Moderate Exercise.
With longer days and warmer weather, it’s tempting to jump into a high-intensity exercise routine after a long winter. However, heavy exertion and high-intensity activities can trigger rosacea flare-ups. Consider choosing low-intensity exercises at more frequent intervals instead of prolonged intense sessions, especially when exercising outdoors. Activities like walking, swimming, dancing, and resistance training can be good options.
Seek Expert Advice.
Even if you’re doing everything right, your rosacea might flare up this spring. If you’re dealing with a flare-up or want to prevent one, now is a great time to schedule an appointment with your dermatology provider. Your dermatologist can help determine your personal rosacea triggers, develop a skin care routine that works and offer advice on additional precautions or treatments you may need.
While spring is a beautiful season, it can also be challenging for those with rosacea. By being proactive and following these tips, we hope you can enjoy the sunshine, warmer temperatures, and longer days while also managing your symptoms. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists to receive personalized care and support. Here’s to a flare-free spring season!