If you live with Rosacea, you know that even the smallest environmental changes can trigger an outbreak. These outbreaks are especially common in extreme weather conditions, making the cool winter months a challenging time for managing symptoms. Fortunately, your Rosacea can be effectively managed in these conditions if a few extra precautions are taken.
While these tips can help keep your Rosacea symptoms under control, it’s important to contact a licensed dermatologist to discuss your skin’s unique triggers and ensure that the steps you’re taking are right for you.
Doctor Jeannette Hudgens and our medical team at Dermatology and Skin Care Center have several years of experience helping patients manage their Rosacea, and can assist you in finding the right products and practices to successfully manage your symptoms.
Why is my Rosacea Triggered by Cold Weather?
The dryness and redness caused by Rosacea can be made worse in the cold winter months. This cool, dry air is one of the most common triggers of Rosacea flare-ups. In a nationwide survey of 1,066 patients, 46 percent said that cold weather aggravated their condition. The harsh wind that accompanies cold weather has also been known to trigger Rosacea breakouts, with 57 percent of those surveyed reporting that this also made their symptoms worse.
What Can I do to Manage my Rosacea in Cold Weather?
While breakouts during cold weather are common, there are several steps you can take to manage and minimize them:
- Regularly use a moisturizer. This will help combat some of the dryness that comes with cold weather. Make sure that the particular brand you’re using is something your skin has responded well to in the past so as not to exacerbate your symptoms. Doctor Hudgens can provide you with specific recommendations if you don’t have a moisturizer that works well with your skin.
- Don’t forget about sunscreen! Cool weather can be deceptive; even if it doesn’t feel hot outside, the sun can still burn and irritate your skin. Protect against this additional trigger by using a non-irritating daily sunscreen.
- Cover exposed areas while you are outside. If you’re going to be out in cold weather for a prolonged period of time, make sure to cover your cheeks and nose with a scarf or ski mask. This will limit your skin’s exposure to the cold and wind, helping prevent a flare-up.
If these preventative measures fail to stop a Rosacea flare-up, your best option may be to avoid going outdoors during cold weather as often as you can.
Contact Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hudgens, or ask a member of our trained medical staff any questions regarding Rosacea treatment and management that you may have. We look forward to hearing from you!