Rosacea Management

Aggravating Factors

• Sun exposure
  
  • Use sunscreens with combined ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B with a sun-protection factor 30+
  • Sunscreen formulations with Dimethicone and Cyclomethicone, zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be less irritative
  • Micronized, nanoparticle and clear formulation sunscreens are options for patients with darker skin  
  • Use wide-brimmed hats

• Hot or cold weather, wind, humidity
  
  • Application of cool compresses and staying in air-conditioned room during hot and humid days
  • Cover face with scarf and use moisturizer on cold days 

• Stress
  
  • Use stress reduction techniques and exercises

• Exercise
  
  • Avoid high-intensity workouts that cause flushing and overheating
  • During warm weather, exercise early or late in the day in a cool environment
  • Exercise for shorter, more frequent intervals
  • Place ice chips in mouth immediately following exercise

• Spicy foods, marinated meats, certain fruits and vegetables, dairy products, alcohol, hot beverages
  
  • Identify and avoid foods and beverages that worsen facial redness
  • A study has found that caffeine does not increase the risk of rosacea

• Hot baths, skin care products
  
  • Avoid hot water
  • Use hypoallergenic, non-irritating, noncomedogenic skin products and avoid heavy cosmetics
  • Apply soap-free cleansers, silicone facial foundations and film-forming moisturizers
  • Men may benefit from use of electric razor 

• Medication
  
  • Avoid use of topical corticosteroids on the face: Fluorinated topical steroids produce rosacea-like syndrome while non-fluorinated low-potency steroids may worsen preexisting rosacea and delay the resolution of flare-ups from steroid use
  • Avoid medications that may aggravate flushing (eg vasodilators, Nicotinic acid, amyl nitrite, calcium antagonists, opiates)