Rosacea Review

Summer 2009

• FEATURE: Rosacea Awareness Month Brings Condition into Public Spotlight
• FEATURE: Rosacea Trigger Aids Medical Research
• FEATURE: Beauty Expert Offers Advice for Looking Your Best at All Times
• Q & A: Answers to Readers' Questions
• TIPS: Avoiding Summer Flare-Ups
• READER SURVEY ON ROSACEA
• BRIEF: Surveys Show Need for More Education
• SUCCESS STORY: She Manages 'Classic Case' with Therapy, Makeup

Tips for Avoiding Summer Flare-Ups

Summer can be a troublesome time for rosacea sufferers, as avoiding some of the most common rosacea triggers -- the sun, hot weather and humidity -- requires special attention. Follow these tips for a successful summer season.

• Know your triggers. If you have identified the lifestyle and environmental factors that contribute to your flare-ups, you have a better chance of controlling your condition.

• Keep your cool. If you feel yourself begin to overheat, apply cool compresses to your face to calm the redness and burning, or mist your head and neck with a spray bottle of cool water. Flushing can sometimes be controlled by chewing on ice chips.

• Exercise caution. Stay in a cool, air-conditioned environment on hot, humid days. If you have outdoor chores or activities, try to schedule them for early morning hours when the temperature is usually lower

• Use sunscreen. Sun exposure is the most frequently cited factor that aggravates rosacea. Stay in shaded areas, or wear a broad-brimmed hat. Be sure to use sunscreen daily with an SPF of 15 or higher.

• Take your meds. Remember to use your medication as prescribed by your doctor. This can help maintain long-term remission of your signs and symptoms.