Rosacea Triggers to Avoid | Dermatologist Advice for Clearer Skin

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps, most commonly affecting the face. One of the most frustrating aspects of rosacea is its unpredictability. For many of my patients here in Boca Raton, it often feels like flare-ups can be set off by just about anything—a sunny afternoon, a glass of wine, or even a stressful day.

While rosacea varies from person to person, many triggers are surprisingly consistent across patients. Understanding and avoiding these common culprits is key to managing symptoms and keeping your skin calm and clear.

1. Sun Exposure

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the most common rosacea triggers. In a survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society (NRS), 81 percent of patients reported sun exposure as a flare-up factor.

How to protect your skin:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy. Look for physical (mineral-based) sunscreens containing zinc oxide, which offer superior UV protection and are gentle on sensitive skin. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and seeking shade during peak sun hours can also help minimize exposure.

2. Hot or Spicy Foods

Foods that dilate or open blood vessels can trigger flushing and inflammation in rosacea-prone skin. Spicy ingredients like chili peppers, hot sauces, and even some soups and stews are commonly linked to flare-ups.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that capsaicin and cinnamaldehyde-containing foods (such as spicy dishes, cinnamon, and tomatoes) activate specific receptors in the skin that are involved in rosacea pathophysiology.

In addition to spicy foods, heat itself can cause flushing of the cheeks. Hot showers, saunas, or cooking over a hot stove are all potential culprits for flushing and rosacea flares.

Tips for patients:
Keep a food diary to help identify which meals tend to cause flares. Opt for milder versions of your favorite dishes, and try to avoid piping-hot meals that can raise skin temperature.

3. Alcohol (Especially Red Wine)

Alcohol is a well-known rosacea trigger, but red wine is particularly problematic, affecting more than 75 percent of those who report alcohol-induced flares, according to the NRS.

What to do instead:
If you notice that alcohol worsens your symptoms, try switching to white wine or diluted spirits in moderation. It can also help to drink slowly and with food, and to stay well hydrated. Of course, avoiding alcohol all together is the best approach.

4. Heat and Humidity

Living in South Florida, my patients are no strangers to heat and humidity. These environmental factors can dilate blood vessels and increase skin temperature, both of which may contribute to flare-ups.

Management strategies:
Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day and use air conditioning or fans to cool your environment. Carry a portable facial mist with soothing ingredients like thermal spring water or green tea extract to help lower skin temperature while on the go.

5. Stress

Emotional stress is another powerful trigger. The brain-skin connection is well documented in dermatology. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system and inflammatory pathways, both of which can worsen rosacea symptoms.

Stress-reducing techniques:
I often recommend mindfulness practices such as yoga, deep breathing exercises, or meditation. Regular physical activity and adequate sleep can also help regulate stress levels and improve overall skin health.

6. Certain Skincare Products

Many rosacea patients have sensitive skin that reacts poorly to common skincare ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, glycolic acid, or sodium lauryl sulfate. Over-exfoliation and harsh cleansers can strip the skin barrier, worsening inflammation.

How to build a rosacea-friendly skincare routine:

• Use a gentle, non-foaming, non-gritty cleanser
• Choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizers
• Introduce new products carefully, and document any reactions
• Avoid physical scrubs or exfoliating brushes

Look for products that contain soothing ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. Prescription options like metronidazole or azelaic acid may also be appropriate for long-term control, depending on your symptoms. To treat redness and fixed blood vessels on the skin, consider cosmetic treatment options such as intense pulsed light.

Putting It All Together

Managing rosacea requires a tailored approach. What triggers one person may not affect another. The key is to observe your skin’s responses and make informed choices about your environment, diet, and skincare.

If you are struggling to control your rosacea or are unsure about which products or habits may be exacerbating your symptoms, professional guidance from a board-certified dermatologist can make a difference. You can learn more about rosacea and treatment options on our Rosacea Services in Boca Raton page.

Final Thoughts

Rosacea is a lifelong condition, but with the right strategies and support, flare-ups can become less frequent and less severe. By identifying and avoiding your personal triggers and by committing to a gentle, targeted skincare routine, you can take control of your rosacea and feel more confident in your skin.