Leaves are rustling, apples are in season, and there’s football on the television. Autumn is in the air! And it may be giving you a rosacea flare-up. In an NRS survey of 852 rosacea patients, nearly 90 percent said the changing seasons affected their skin. 

Enjoy the relief from the brutal summer heat, but be careful to avoid the common autumn triggers that could be a tripwire for your rosacea. Here are a few tips to make it through fall:

Wrap it up: Weather in autumn can change from one minute to the next. Dressing in layers is a great way to accommodate for shifting temperatures that may aggravate rosacea symptoms. Scarves are another great way to protect from windy weather without committing to a full winter outfit. 

Plan ahead: With the combination of back-to-school time, fall sports and the approaching holiday season, schedules can get busy and prone to flare-ups fast. Take advantage of down time to plan ahead, which may mean meal planning, packing a hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun, or taking time to anticipate any surprises that might cause stress down the road.  

Slow your sip: A steamy hot tea or latte can be very tempting on a chilly day, but remember to let hot beverages cool before consuming them. In a survey, 36 percent of rosacea patients pointed to heated drinks as a trigger. Spiced chai, gingerbread- and pumpkin-flavored beverages may also cause a flare-up for those with a sensitive palate. 

Take your meds: Though your schedule may change in the fall, that doesn’t mean your medication schedule should. Carry your medication and skincare routine into the new season, and remember it’s very important to follow your doctor’s orders even if symptoms are no longer visible.