Why is My Rosacea Worse in the Summer?

If you’re one of the 14 million Americans living with rosacea, you know that summer can be a challenging time.

Heat, humidity, and sun can all trigger flare ups, intensifying the red or bumpy appearance of rosacea on your face, chest, ears, and even your back.

Fortunately, there are simple measures you can take to minimize the risk of flare ups that don’t involve missing out on all the fun summer holds. Here’s where to begin:

Think Sun Protection

Even just a few minutes in the sun (think the walk to your mailbox and back) can trigger uncontrollable flushing or redness. To avoid this:

- Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher EVERY day. Look for fragrance-free products that contain zinc oxide or titanium doxide to minimize the risk of irritating your skin.

- Wear a wide-brimmed hat whenever venturing out during the day.

- Avoid spending time outside during the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is especially important when exercising outdoors as your increased body temperature and sun can combine to trigger a major flare up.  Instead, try to exercise in the early morning or early evening when temperatures are cooler. If flare ups persist, take your workout inside to a preferably air-conditioned room. 

- Whenever there’s an option to stand in the shade, take it.

Keep Cool

Keeping your body temperature down throughout the day—indoors or outdoors—can help prevent flare ups.

- When spending time outdoors, always carry a water bottle or, better yet, a combination water-and-spray bottle filled with cool water. Sip from it frequently and mist your face, chest, and back of your neck as needed.

- If you become overheated, take a cool shower or, at the very least, place a cool damp cloth on the back of your neck.

- On excessively hot days, stay indoors in air conditioning.

Eat and Drink Wisely

- Avoid foods that trigger flare ups. Unfortunately, that may mean skipping summer salads with tomatoes or strawberries and meats barbecued with pepper, paprika, or cayenne. For a list of foods that may trigger a flare up, click here.

- Alcohol is widely recognized as a common rosacea trigger, especially red wine, beer, bourbon, gin, vodka, or champagne. Instead, opt for flavored seltzers with lots of ice to toast your summer days.

Stay the Course

- If your doctor has prescribed medication to control your rosacea, take it as prescribed and be sure to pack it if you go on vacation.

Lixia Ellis, MD, PhD is dermatologist at SVMC Dermatology.