Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition affecting many people, yet many remain unaware of its causes, triggers, and management.
Though facial redness and flushing are the most recognizable symptoms, rosacea can present in several ways and be affected by many lifestyle, environmental, and internal factors.*
When you truly understand rosacea, you can take charge of your skin’s health. This guide covers the essentials, from common triggers and simple skincare tips to potential underlying causes and how to manage your symptoms with greater confidence. Let’s begin by exploring what typically causes flare-ups and how you might recognize your own triggers.
What causes rosacea flare-ups
Rosacea flare-ups are triggered by factors that increase blood flow or cause inflammation. These triggers differ among individuals, but several commonly worsen symptoms.
Environmental triggers include sun, heat, cold, wind, and sudden temperature changes. Indoor heat and dry air may worsen flare-ups, especially in colder months.
Certain foods and drinks can trigger symptoms. Hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine may cause flushing by dilating blood vessels.
Emotional and physical stress can also trigger flare-ups. Stress can raise inflammation, making redness and irritation more noticeable.
Hormonal changes—such as those during pregnancy—may also affect rosacea. Some individuals experience improvement, while others notice more frequent or intense flare-ups during this time.
Recognizing personal triggers is key to reducing symptom frequency and understanding what makes rosacea worse for you.
Foods That Trigger Rosacea Flare Ups
What you eat can play an important role in how you experience rosacea. While everyone’s response is individual, some foods are known triggers of more frequent flare-ups.
Foods To Avoid With Rosacea
Spicy, processed, and histamine-rich foods are common triggers of rosacea. Alcohol—especially red wine—can also worsen redness and flushing. Hot soups, coffee, and sugary beverages may play a role in inflammation.
Many people find that keeping a food journal is a simple way to uncover helpful patterns between meals and skin reactions.
Foods That May Help
Anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, berries, whole grains, and omega-3-rich foods may support healthier skin. Drinking plenty of water and choosing cooler meals and beverages can also help minimize flushing.
Stress And Rosacea
Stress affects more than just mental health—it can have a noticeable impact on the skin. Emotional stress activates the body’s inflammatory response, which can worsen redness, swelling, and sensitivity in people with rosacea.
Whether it’s work demands, sleepless nights, or big life changes, stress can trigger more frequent flare-ups. Try weaving stress-busting activities like regular exercise, deep breathing, meditation, or simply more rest into your routine for easier symptom management.
Taking control of your stress is one of the best things you can do for long-term rosacea care.
Skincare For Rosacea
A gentle skincare routine is important for maintaining healthy, comfortable skin with rosacea. Harsh products can damage the skin barrier and worsen irritation.
Cleansing
Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers designed for sensitive skin. Avoid scrubs or exfoliating products that can cause redness and irritation.
Moisturizing
Hydrating the skin strengthens the barrier and reduces sensitivity. Choose alcohol-free moisturizers for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
Sun Protection
Sun exposure is one of the most common triggers of rosacea. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential, even on cloudy days.
Additional Tips
Try cool compresses, take lukewarm showers, and skip steam rooms or saunas to help curb flare-ups. When you’re out and about, a hat or sun-protective clothing is a great boost to your sun defense.
Consistent, gentle skincare can greatly improve comfort and reduce symptom frequency.
Causes Of Rosacea
The exact causes of rosacea are unclear, yet various factors are thought to contribute.
Genetics
Rosacea often runs in families. If a close relative has the condition, your risk may be higher.
Is Rosacea Contagious?
No. Rosacea is not contagious and cannot be spread through physical contact.
Can Rosacea Develop Later in Life?
Many people develop rosacea in adulthood, typically between ages 30 and 50. Symptoms can start subtly and increase over time.
Immune System Factors
Research suggests that an overactive immune response may contribute to rosacea. Inflammation can cause persistent redness, swelling, and visible blood vessels.
These factors help explain why each person’s rosacea looks and feels different—and why no two journeys are exactly alike.
What Else Should I Know About Rosacea?
Having examined the causes and symptoms, you may have additional questions. Here are several important considerations for ongoing rosacea care, and what to expect in the long term.
Rosacea is a long-term condition, but it is manageable with proper care. Symptoms can include persistent redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, acne-like bumps, and, in some cases, eye irritation known as ocular rosacea.
Rosacea does not look the same for everyone. Triggers, symptoms, and responses to treatment differ from person to person. What works for one patient may not work for someone else.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent worsening of symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. A combination of professional treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and gentle skincare often provides the best results.
Get Rosacea Treatment Today
If you or someone you know has persistent redness, irritation, or sensitivity, a dermatologist can help. They can identify your triggers, suggest treatments, and create a care plan.
Rosacea does not have to control your life. With the right approach, symptoms can be managed, and skin can look and feel healthier. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward better skin health.
*Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dermatology Partners is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from reliance on this information.
Sources
Cleveland Clinic. (2026). Rosacea: Symptoms, causes, triggers & treatment.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12174-rosacea
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, October 17). Rosacea – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rosacea/symptoms-causes/syc-20353815
National Rosacea Society. (n.d.). Factors that may trigger rosacea flare‑ups.
https://www.rosacea.org/patients/rosacea-triggers/factors-that-may-trigger-rosacea-flare-ups
National Rosacea Society. (n.d.). Managing rosacea.
https://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/managing-rosacea/lifestyle-management
Healthline. (2025). Rosacea diet: Foods to eat and foods to avoid for calmer skin.
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/rosacea
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). How to prevent rosacea flare‑ups.
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea/triggers/prevent
