Disarming Common Rosacea Triggers

According to a patient survey by The National Rosacea Society, sun exposure, emotional stress and hot weather were the top three most common trigger factors for rosacea, affecting 80%, 79% and 75% of patients, respectively. Before you think of moving to Yuko in Canada, do note that paradoxically, wind and cold weather are also common triggers of rosacea. While we can’t change the weather, we can protect our skin from sun exposure.
Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen about 30 minutes before
going out into the sun. For adequate protection, use half a teaspoon (2.5 ml) of SPF30 face sunscreen for your face and neck, and a teaspoon (5 ml) per exposed body part, i.e. 1 for each arm; 1 for each leg; 1 for your chest and abdomen, and 1 for your back and the back of your neck). ZO Skin Health Daily Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 provides daily multi-defense protection. If you perspire heavily or go swimming, reapply your SPF every two hours or as needed to maintain coverage.
Emotional stress can be brought on by relationship issues, a hectic work environment, financial crisis, significant life changes or a whole host of other factors. A well-nourished and well-rested body is better able to cope with stress. Make it a priority to reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine, reduce consumption of processed foods, eat at least two servings of vegetables and fruits every day and sleep between 7 to 8 hours per night. It is also helpful to do something that you enjoy every day.
Overexertion may trigger rosacea flare-ups in some, causing many people with rosacea to shy away from workouts. However, regular exercise is essential for well-being and stress control. Instead of avoiding exercise altogether, try low-intensity or moderate workouts. Swimming, aqua aerobics in the pool, or dance classes in an air-conditioned room are good ways of getting full-body workouts while remaining cool. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and overheating, and keep exercise sessions under 45 minutes.
Certain cosmetics or hair sprays, especially those containing alcohol, witch hazel or fragrances, may also trigger rosacea in some. Though it helps to choose cosmetics without alcohol and fragrances, it can be a matter of trial-and-error to find cosmetic products that agree with your skin. Use products designed for rosacea prone skin to keep the signs and symptoms of rosacea in check.
Not everyone has the same triggers; to track your personal triggers, keep a diary of daily activities or events and check if there are any patterns with the flare-ups that you experience. Useful things to note are the weather, food, exercise, cosmetic or skin care products applied, possible emotional stressors and skin condition. In time, you will be able to see how your environment and lifestyle impact your skin condition and avoid triggers.