Seasonal changes don’t just mean swapping your wardrobe—they can trigger rosacea flare-ups, too. A clinical review of the top triggers of patients with rosacea revealed weather variations are among the top culprits behind these flare-ups, alongside other factors like sun exposure and exercise. With winter’s cold winds and dry air creeping in, it’s the perfect storm for redness and irritation to make their move.
But don’t worry—these tips will help you control flare-ups and enjoy clear, calm skin no matter how chilly it gets.
1. Hydrate Your Skin with the Right Moisturiser
The dry, winter air can suck the moisture right out of your skin and leave it vulnerable to redness and irritation. Not to mention, a common symptom of rosacea is dryness and can make your skin feel rough and scaly.
A rich, soothing moisturiser is your first line of defence. Apply your moisturiser right after spritzing with Skinstitut Multi-Active Mist while your skin is slightly damp—it helps seal in hydration and keeps your skin soft and calm.
2. Shield Your Skin from Harsh Winter Winds with A Scarf
Winter winds can wreak havoc on rosacea-prone skin and lead to dryness, redness, and irritation of blood vessels. Minimise exposure to these harsh winds by wearing a scarf loosely around your face or opting for a high-collar jacket.
If possible, opt for soft and breathable materials like cotton to keep your skin comfy. Avoid wool or other rough fabrics that can worsen sensitive skin.
3. Stick to a Gentle Cleansing Routine
Harsh cleansers or overwashing can strip off essential oils from your skin and leave it more likely to flare up. Choose a gentle-low-irritant cleanser that cleanses without disrupting your skin’s natural barrier.
Stick to cleansing twice a day—once in the morning and once at night. Over-cleansing can do more harm than good, so avoid the temptation to wash your face every time it feels dry or tight.
4. Use Sunscreen, Even in Winter
Sun exposure is among the top rosacea triggers, but you might think that just because it’s cold outside, UV rays are taking a vacation—not quite. Winter sun can be just as harsh on rosacea-prone skin.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher, specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these are less likely to irritate and provide excellent protection.
5. Invest in a Humidifier for Indoor Relief
Winter air is cold and dry, and it’s this dry air which aggravates your rosacea. Central heating only worsens things by lowering the surrounding air’s moisture content.
A humidifier is your winter skin’s best friend. Place it in your bedroom or living space and keep it on, especially while you sleep. Set the humidity level between 50-55%. Too much humidity can encourage bacteria or mould growth, so balance is key.
6. Skip the Hot Drinks
When the weather gets frosty, it’s tempting to reach for a piping hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to warm up. But for rosacea-prone skin, the heat from these drinks can trigger flushing and redness. The hot temperature dilates blood vessels, making your skin more likely to flare up.
Instead, let your drink cool down to a more comfortable, lukewarm temperature before sipping. You’ll still get that cosy, comforting feeling without risking a rosacea reaction.
7. Set Your Shower to a Moderate Temperature
Steamy showers feel amazing in the winter, but they can also trigger increased blood flow to your skin, leading to unwanted flushing. Hot water dilates blood vessels, making your skin more reactive and prone to flare-ups.
Keep your shower temperature lukewarm—warm enough to feel comfortable but not so hot that it steams up the bathroom. This reduces the risk of triggering a reaction while still keeping you cosy.
8. Watch Your Diet for Winter Comfort Foods
What you eat plays a big role in managing rosacea, especially during winter when comfort foods can be hard to resist. Certain foods and beverages like spicy dishes, cinnamaldehyde-containing foods (e.g., tomatoes, citrus fruits, and chocolate), and histamine-rich options (e.g., aged cheese, wine, and processed meats), are common triggers for rosacea flare-ups.
Instead of reaching for these potential triggers, focus on skin-friendly options like omega-3-rich foods (salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds) that may help reduce inflammation and protect against certain rosacea subtypes. Warm, mild dishes like oatmeal, roasted vegetables, or non-spicy soups are comforting and gentle on your skin.
9. Explore Professional Rosacea Treatments
When winter flare-ups strike, professional treatments can make all the difference. Options like HydraFacial, Calm & Hydrate Peel, and LED Light Therapy are designed to reduce redness, calm inflammation, and improve overall skin texture. These treatments target rosacea symptoms at a deeper level, giving you long-lasting relief and a healthier complexion.
Rosacea doesn’t have to run the show this winter. From tweaking your skincare routine to exploring professional treatments, there’s plenty you can do to keep your skin calm and happy.
Need a customised plan? Book a consult with our Skin Therapists at Laser Clinics United Kingdom—they’ll help you tackle your rosacea with expert care and personalised solutions.
