More than a third of rosacea patients feel they are hit hardest by rosacea symptoms during the colder months. Arctic air and indoor heating are among the host of special conditions that can worsen symptoms during the wintertime. Managing rosacea in the winter doesn’t have to be complicated. With some simple precautions, you can minimize the effects colder weather can bring.
Indoor, Outdoor, and other Winter-Related Triggers
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by symptoms, flare-ups, and remissions. It affects mainly the central area of the face causing redness in the cheeks, forehead, and chin. Some of the common triggers for flare-ups are cold, dry air, spicy foods, sun exposure, and hot beverages. The winter months can wreak havoc on rosacea symptoms because typical changes in weather and other factors associated with the seasonal transition increase exposure to rosacea triggers.
Winter triggers include:
- Exposure to cold, dry air, and wind when outdoors
- Warm, dry heated air from indoor heating systems
- Direct heat exposure from fireplaces and other heating sources
- Drinking hot beverages
- Increased stress caused by the holiday season
Reducing Winter’s Effect on Rosacea
Snow, hot cocoa, company holiday parties, and warming up to a roaring fire are some of the things that make winter so fun. At the same time, these seasonal traditions can trigger rosacea flares capable of halting all festivities. Continuing your doctor’s treatment plan is critical in managing symptoms the entire year. However, you can take additional precautions to reduce exposure to triggers, lowering the risk of flare-ups.
- Limit time outdoors in inclement weather and protect your face with a scarf or ski mask.
- You can get a sunburn in the winter, especially when the sun reflects off the snow. Use sunscreen all year when outside.
- Avoid overwhelming yourself with all the holiday stress. Spread out activities, and use restraint when helping or attending events.
- When baking or cooking for the holidays, take breaks when you can to cool off.
- Limit consumption of heated beverages and alcohol. An ice cube can help lower the heat in a cup of cocoa.
Let our team of experts here at Texas Dermatology help if rosacea flare-ups have you singing the winter blues. Schedule your consultation today! Call us at (210) 728-3919, or book through our online portal here.
Sources:
https://www.rosacea.org/rosacea-review/2001/winter/tis-the-season-for-winter-flare-ups
https://www.healthcentral.com/article/managing-rosacea-during-the-winter-months
