According to The National Rosacea Society (NRS), winter is especially hard on those with rosacea due to the drop in temperature and harsh winds. In a survey of nearly 700 rosacea patients, 72 percent reported that cold weather was a trigger for rosacea, and 88 percent said that wind was the most common seasonal element to trigger their condition. For those looking to mitigate the effects of wintry conditions and reduce rosacea flare-ups, Pamela Friedman, CEO of CV Skinlabs, shares a few pieces of advice.
- Protect the Skin from the Wind: Try to stay indoors on windy days and when outside, cover up with hats, gloves, scarves, and masks.
- Wear Layered Clothing: Make sure to don layers of loose clothing to accommodate conditions indoors and out.
- Use Sunscreen: Sun exposure is a trigger for rosacea year-round, so be sure to apply a sunscreen—preferable a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium oxide—every single day.
- Avoid Hot Drinks: Warm beverages can often lead to overheating, which can in turn cause a flare.
- Moisturize Frequently: The cold and dry air often sucks moisture from the skin, resulting in disruptions to the skin barrier and subsequent flare-ups. Moisturizing is a must, although avoid irritating ingredients like harsh chemicals and fragrances.
- Use a Humidifier: A humidifier can help relieve dry skin by replacing any lost moisture into the air.
- Don’t Stand Over a Hot Stove: This can increase the risk of a flare-up, so try to prepare, bake, and cook away from the direct heat as much as possible.
- Practice Stress Relief Daily: Avoid overscheduling and maintain boundaries. Each day, try to fit in some stress-relieving activity, such as walking, yoga, tai chi, meditation, and crafting.
- Cool Your Skin: If the body or skin begins feeling hot, immediately cool the skin by using a moisturizing and refreshing spray.
- Get Enough Sleep: A lot of skin repair happens during sleep, indicating a need for plenty of sleep to allow the skin to address the dryness and inflammation associated with rosacea. Aim for 7–8 hours a night.
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