The National Rosacea Society
Rosacea is a skin disease that causes redness, pimples, and red lines on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. A rash over the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin often occurs. People sometimes call it “adult acne” because it can cause pimple-like outbreaks. Rosacea can also cause burning and soreness in the eyes and eyelids. Fair-skinned people between the ages of 30 and 60 are most likely to develop rosacea. Women are more likely to have rosacea, but men usually have more severe symptoms.
Factors That May Trigger Rosacea Flare-Ups The following list was compiled from patient histories by Dr. Jonathan Wilkin and produced by the National Rosacea Society. You may control rosacea avoiding triggers that lead to flare-ups.
Foods
- Liver
- Yogurt
- Sour cream
- Cheese (except cottage cheese)
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Soy sauce
- Yeast extract (bread is ok)
- Vinegar
- Eggplant
- Avocados
- Spinach
- Broad-leaf beans and pods, including lima, navy or pea
- Citrus fruits, including tomatoes, bananas, red plums, raisins or figs
- Spicy and thermally hot foods
- Foods high in histamine
Temperature-related
- Saunas
- Hot baths
- Simple overheating
- Excessively warm environments
Weather
- Sun
- Strong winds
- Cold
- Humidity
Drugs
- Vasodilators
- Topical steroids
Beverages
- Alcohol, especially red wine, beer, bourbon, gin, vodka or champagne
- Hot drinks, including hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee or tea
Medical Conditions
- Frequent flushing
- Menopause
- Chronic cough
- Caffeine withdrawal syndrome
Emotional Influences
- Stress
- Anxiety
Physical Exertion
- Exercise
- “Lift and load” jobs
Skincare Products
- Some cosmetics and hair sprays, especially those containing alcohol, witch hazel or fragrances
- Hydro-alcoholic or acetone substances
- Any substance that causes redness or stinging
