Although rosacea can affect anyone of any age, fair skinned adults between the ages of 30 and 50 are most likely to develop it. Since rosacea may be associated with menopause, women are affected more often than men and may notice an extreme sensitivity to cosmetics.
Rosacea has no cure, but there are ways to reduce its intensity or prevent a flare-up. As with many conditions, avoiding the substances that provoke the condition is the first line of defense.
- Avoid triggers, including hot drinks, spicy foods, caffeine and alcoholic beverages that make the face red or flushed. Although alcohol may worsen rosacea, the condition may be just as severe in someone who doesn't drink at all; for this reason rosacea has been unfairly linked to alcoholism.
- Practice good sun protection. Seek shade when possible and limit exposure to sunlight, wear hats and use broad spectrum sunscreens with SPF of 15 or higher; reapply every 2 hours.
- Avoid extreme hot and cold temperatures which may exacerbate the symptoms of rosacea. Exercise in a cool environment. Do not overheat.
- Avoid rubbing, scrubbing or massaging the face.
- Avoid cosmetics and facial products that contain alcohol. Use hair sprays properly, avoiding contact with facial skin.
- Keep a diary of flushing episodes and note associated foods, products, activities, medications or other triggering factors.
Editor's Note: Although the diary is a time-consuming and inconvenient habit to make, it is probably the single most effective way to learn what triggers your condition. Once you know the triggers, you can avoid, avoid, avoid and greatly reduce your discomfort.
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