Did you know rosacea affects more than 16 million Americans? This chronic skin condition often brings on several uncomfortable symptoms, like swelling and irritated red bumps, which typically worsen during the winter season. 

If you suffer from rosacea, you likely already know the chilly temperatures, icy winds, dry air, and overly-heated indoor areas can trigger rosacea flare-ups or make existing rosacea even worse. 

To help you better manage your rosacea this winter, take a look at our dermatologist’s top tips for calming rosacea flare-ups during the cold weather months. 

5 Key Tips for Calming Rosacea Flare-Ups 

Stay Covered in the Cold 

Whether you live in the snowy mountains, chilly midwest, or even someplace in the world where winters are mild, it’s crucial to protect yourself from the cold temperatures and freezing winds that dry out the skin. 

It’s well known that dry skin exacerbates symptoms for those with rosacea, so be sure to cover up with multiple lightweight layers, thick scarves, gloves, and, depending on how cold it is, a face mask to further protect your face and skin. 

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

An essential tip for managing rosacea flare-ups in the winter is keeping your skin fully moisturized every day. We recommend moisturizing with thicker creams and heavier lotions, such as petroleum jelly, which will deliver a heftier dose of hydration compared to lighter moisturizers. 

Additionally, to ensure your moisturizer is doing its job of adequately hydrating the skin, it’s best to apply it directly after bathing or showering when the skin is still slightly damp and extra absorbent. 

Keep Cool to Reduce Your Rosacea Flare-Ups 

Did you know your body temperature can be a trigger for rosacea flare-ups? An overheated body commonly brings on rosacea flushing, so make sure to keep your cool by following a few steps: 

• • • Take regular breaks from a heated kitchen or room. 
    • Don’t drink burning hot drinks—for instance, hot chocolate or mulled cider. 
    • Take it easy with strenuous activities, such as shoveling the driveway and outdoor running. 
    • Stay away from direct heat sources, like a blazing fireplace or electric heater. 

Understand Your Individual Triggers 

Everyone with this chronic skin condition will have specific triggers that set off a rosacea flare-up. It’s essential to know and understand what your individual triggers are, as this makes it easier to avoid those things to reduce the chances of a rosacea flare-up. 

Not sure what your rosacea triggers might be? Here are a few common ones: 

• • • Alcohol 
    • Stress or Anxiety 
    • Spicy Foods 
    • Dairy 
    • Hot Beverages 
    • Skin Products 
    • Exercise or Heavy Exertion 
    • Hot Baths or Saunas 

Moisturize the Air

Not only should you regularly moisturize your skin, but you should also moisturize the air! In other words, adding crucial humidity to the air — either with a humidifier or by merely placing bowls of warm water throughout your house — is a great way to minimize rosacea flare-ups in the winter. 

Think of it this way: dry air sucks out the moisture in your skin, whereas an optimally humidified home adds moisture to your skin. 

Follow Your Dermatologist’s Recommendations

Ultimately, the best thing you can do for your rosacea is following your doctor’s recommendations! However, if you find your flare-ups getting worse as the chilly months roll around, it’s likely best you pay a visit to your doctor or a board-certified dermatologist for an updated treatment plan. 

At Cumberland Skin, our experienced dermatologists are passionate about helping our patients find an effective rosacea treatment plan. We’re ready to help you too and ensure you stay happy and comfortable during the winter months! 

Interested in learning more about how we can help you find the best rosacea treatment? Contact Cumberland Skin Surgery and Dermatology today! Schedule a consultation online or call 615.449.5771 (Lebanon) or 615.964.5941 (Hermitage).