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5 Best Ways to Manage Your Rosacea in the Cooler Months

Rosacea is a common skin condition, but it’s still not completely understood. While medical researchers can’t identify a root cause of rosacea, it seems that genetics and environmental factors play a role in the appearance and aggravation of this skin condition. Rosacea flare ups often resemble rashes, acne, and/or sunburn — common symptoms include redness, swelling, and visible blood vessels, typically on the face. Though there is no cure for rosacea at the moment, there are many ways to alleviate its symptoms. Those suffering from rosacea may undergo the worst flare ups during the winter when the air is dry and cold, so let’s discuss 5 of the best ways to manage your rosacea in the cooler months.

How to Manage Rosacea

1. Keep Wearing Sunscreen

Most of us only bother slapping on sunscreen during the summer when it’s hot and sunny, but it’s worth noting that the sun remains a threat to your skin during the winter as well. UV radiation is one of many environmental rosacea triggers. As such, neglecting to protect your skin from the sun may lead to rosacea breakouts or worsen existing ones. So, if you plan on spending time outdoors or next to a window, cover your exposed skin with SPF 30+ sunscreen (especially your face).

2. Keep Your Skin and Your Body Hydrated

It’s no secret that the cold, dry air does no favors for your skin. In addition to exacerbating wrinkles and lines, acne, dermatitis, and other skin problems, the dry air can trigger your rosacea. One way to combat this potential response is by regularly moisturizing your skin with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer designed for sensitive skin. Apply these products lightly and avoid rubbing your skin too much, as this can lead to further irritation. Additionally, drink plenty of water during the winter (and year-round, for that matter) — keeping your body hydrated helps keep your skin hydrated.

3. Protect Your Skin From Harsh Winds

Cold, sharp winds are among the nastiest artifacts of winter. Not only are these biting gusts painful to endure — they may also lead to rosacea outbreaks as the air irritates your blood vessels. The best way to avoid this potential trigger is to limit your time outdoors, especially if it’s a particularly cold and windy day. If you do go outside, though, cover up with warm clothing, especially a scarf that protects your neck and face.

4. Don’t Overheat

While it’s important to stay warm during the winter, you don’t want to raise your body temperature too high, either. Warm, tight-fitting clothing can block your pores and irritate your skin, and long, hot showers can strip away your skin’s natural oils and increase blood flow. Additionally, drinking hot liquids like tea, coffee, and cocoa can flush your face and trigger a rosacea flareup. If you’re looking to manage your rosacea this winter, then, do your best to allow your skin to breathe and moderate your body temperature.

5. Seek Treatments and Therapies

The advice above will help you prevent and minimize rosacea outbreaks, but you may still struggle with this skin condition despite your best efforts. If you’re having a hard time with your rosacea, you might consider seeking treatment and therapy for your condition under the guidance of your dermatologist. Rosacea treatment options include:

  • Topical treatment for rosacea
    • Drugs such as brimonidine (Mirvaso) and oxymetazoline (Rhofade) that restrict blood vessels to reduce redness and swelling
    • Creams and ointments that reduce acne-like outbreaks from rosacea, such as azelaic acid, metronidazole, and ivermectin
  • Antibiotics to prevent infection and control pimples and plaques
  • Acne medications for severe rosacea
  • Laser therapies that removes blood vessels and reduces redness

Ridding Your Face of Redness this Winter

When temperatures drop, some facial flushing is normal and inevitable. Rosacea, on the other hand, takes this redness to the next level. If you’re self-conscious about your rosacea breakouts, the experts at Premier Dermatology Partners can help you find the best rosacea treatment for your skin this winter and give you additional advice for avoiding flareups. To learn more about our team and all the services we provide, contact us.

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