How to Protect My Skin with Rosacea in the Summer
What to Know About Summer Rosacea
Rosacea in Summer
For people who blush, heat and stress can cause temporary redness on your face. For people who have rosacea, these same causes can provoke a long-lasting redness that is deeper than a regular blush. In the summer, we’re out in the sun and our schedule is full of time outside with friends in addition to our regular commitments. Knowing your rosacea triggers can help you protect your skin this summer, when physical stressors are high.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin condition where blood vessels on the face become flushed and visible. It may be temporary, but a flare-up might remain for weeks and even months. Some report tenderness in the reddened areas, and sometimes a flare-up is accompanied by a pimple-like breakout that people say is somewhat painful. Although the causes are unknown, we do know what provokes it, and while there is no cure, the condition can be managed when it does show up.
Why Summer?
When rosacea shows itself, it’s because the blood vessels near the surface of the face are swollen. Warm temperatures are a main cause of a rosacea flare-up. Sun exposure can cause sun damage in the first place, and people who have rosacea may find that sunshine can irritate their condition. Wearing an appropriate sunblock for your skin (of at least SPF 35) without added chemicals will help protect your skin in areas that you can’t cover up.
Exercise can also provoke redness because your body is heating up and blood is flowing. This also happens when we’re outside more, playing sports or enjoying a run. On the other hand, summer is a social time, so some of us might be drinking more alcohol at parties or eating spicy foods, both of which get our blood moving and temperatures rising. General stress can also be hard on the body and can be another provocation for rosacea. Packed schedules and high temperatures don’t necessarily have to lead to frequent breakouts, even if some are inevitable.
How to Protect Your Skin in Summer
The major way that a rosacea flare-up can be avoided is by simply avoiding the irritants. This is easier said than done, though, so at least remaining aware of what your specific triggers are will be your main strategy for preventing rosacea’s redness. When you’re in the sun, staying covered with a hat can reduce the amount of UV light directly on your face, and your SPF helps with areas that aren’t covered. Staying well-hydrated and exercising inside or in the shade is an example of finding balance between rosacea and living your life. Sunlight, exercise, and certain foods can be difficult to avoid, so the next best thing you can do is know how to manage a flare-up to get you to the other side of it.
Treatment for Rosacea
There isn’t a cure for rosacea, but since it usually happens just below your skin, sometimes it can be covered up with foundation. Otherwise, there are medications that can help manage a rosacea flare-up, and there are promising laser treatments as well, but your dermatologist is equipped to identify the best rosacea treatment for your individual condition. Schedule an appointment with one of our dermatology specialists to find support for your skin’s health.