The reddened, bumpy skin of rosacea doesn't always strike arbitrarily. Certain rosacea risk factors can predispose you to developing this skin condition.
"The exact cause of rosacea is not known," says Amy J. Derick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Barrington, Ill. But experts do know that there are some characteristics that can make people more likely to develop rosacea. "Certain ethnicities, especially the Irish, are more likely to suffer from rosacea," says Dr. Derick. Also at an increased risk of having rosacea are people with the following ethnic backgrounds:
- Eastern European
Other possible rosacea risks include:
- A history of blushing easily
- Having sun-damaged skin
- Having fair skin
- Being between 30 and 50 years old
- Being female
- Being menopausal or perimenopausal
- Having a family history of rosacea
Though studies haven't been done to prove whether rosacea is hereditary, according to one survey conducted by National Rosacea Society, as many as 40 percent of people with rosacea indicated a family history of the condition.
Steps to Reduce Your Rosacea Risks
You can't change your ethnicity, complexion, or age, but if you're aware that you're at increased risk of developing rosacea, you can take steps to help protect your skin. Simply adjusting your lifestyle can reduce rosacea risks. "Excessive sun exposure can exacerbate rosacea and is a prime trigger," says Derick.
There are a number of other known triggers that can cause a rosacea flare-up, many of which can be easily avoided. To reduce rosacea risks:
- Don’t take showers or baths in very hot water — warm water is better.
- Don’t allow yourself to become overheated; dress in light clothing or layers you can remove as needed.
- Don’t expose your face to very cold or very windy weather.
- Limit sun exposure — protect skin with long sleeves, long pants, and a hat to prevent sunburn and skin damage, and wear sunscreen every day.
Making Lifestyle Changes
- Avoiding other triggers can definitely help as well, says Derick. Try making these changes to minimize the likelihood of rosacea symptoms:Exercise only in a cool environment — move your workout indoors on hot days.
- Avoid alcohol, a known trigger of flushing — a common rosacea symptom.
- Keep your stress levels under control.
- Skip any harsh or abrasive skin products, including any that contain alcohol.
- Don't scrub or rub your face vigorously.
Certain foods exacerbate rosacea symptoms in some people. You may want to steer clear of foods that are common rosacea triggers:
- Fermented products such as dry cheeses, yogurt, sour cream, and vinegar
- Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and red plums
- Spicy foods
- Hot beverages
- Some beans, eggplants, spinach, and avocados
- Chocolate and vanilla
In addition, some medications can cause rosacea redness, so let your doctor know if you have rosacea risk factors. You may need to avoid using medications like topical steroids and vasodilators.
Knowing how to reduce your rosacea risks and how to help prevent symptoms will go a long way toward keeping your skin healthy.