It’s no secret that seasonal changes in the weather affect rosacea sufferers. In a National Rosacea Society survey of 852 survey respondents, nearly 90% said their condition is affected by the change in seasons.1 While environmental factors such as sun exposure may be an issue year-round, each season brings its own challenges. Here are some tips to help you avoid flare-ups throughout the year.

Fall: Weather in autumn can change from one minute to the next, and wind often irritates sensitive rosacea skin, especially in cooler weather. Minimize time outdoors on brisk days. Dressing in layers is a great way to accommodate for shifting temperatures that may aggravate rosacea symptoms. High-collared coats and scarves are great ways to protect from windy weather without committing to a full winter outfit.

If you’re spending the day outside, whether you’re cheering at a football game, picking apples or readying the garden for winter, think about taking a break to go inside every few hours. This will give you a chance to warm up, reapply sunscreen, grab extra clothing and check if you’re developing a sun or windburn.

Winter: Cold weather is a major trigger for many people with rosacea. Exposed skin is vulnerable skin, and a heavy scarf or hood may be helpful for protecting against the elements in winter. For more extreme temperatures, a face mask may be effective protection of the cheeks and nose.

At the same time, too much indoor heat can also be a trigger for many, so be sure to adjust your thermostat to a temperature that won’t cause you to overheat.

Winter can be especially hard on those with ocular rosacea. The chilly blasts of winter winds may cause eyes to water, while indoor heating systems tend to make the air dry, leaving eyes feeling gritty and irritated. Protect your eyes outdoors with glasses or sunglasses, and use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air.

Spring: As winter gives way to spring, the weather can often be unpredictable. Bring out that light scarf from the closet to protect your face from blustery winds, and keep sunglasses handy for unexpectedly bright spring days.

Many patients have reported that airborne allergens such as pollen and mold have caused their rosacea to flare up. If you have a seasonal allergy, be sure to take your allergy medication every day.

Summer: While many patients report that their skin is at its best during summer, it’s also the time of year survey respondents say they must make the most lifestyle changes to avoid flare-ups. As people spend more time outdoors, exposure to sun, heat and humidity can become more of an issue.

Try to keep your body temperature down while having fun in the sun by chewing on ice chips, using a spray bottle filled with water to cool down your face or draping a cold wet towel around your neck. To ease the effects of high humidity, try to keep the face cool and clean. Wash off sunscreen, dirt and grime with a gentle cleanser and cool water, and reapply sunscreen or moisturizer as needed.

Avoid any outdoor exercise between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun is at its hottest. On extremely hot days, go to an air-conditioned gymnasium instead. Swimming can be a relaxing way to exercise during the summer while staying cool — however, swimmers may find chlorinated or salt water drying or irritating to their skin. Rinse your face immediately after swimming and reapply sunscreen if you remain outdoors.

All Year: The sun is out all year long, and can cause a flare-up even on overcast days. Minimize direct sun exposure and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. Look for non-chemical sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium dioxide and deliver UVA/UVB protection with an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreens designed for sensitive skin, such as a convenient mineral formulation, can help reduce the possibility of irritation.

No matter what time of year it is, sticking with your prescribed medical therapy and gentle skin care routine can go a long way toward preventing potential flare-ups.

Reference:

1. National Rosacea Society. “Changing Seasons Can Trigger Flare-Ups, New Survey Shows.” Rosacea Review, Summer 2014.