Recognizing Rosacea Triggers to Prevent Spring Flare-Ups

If those pesky signs of rosacea, red bumps and visible veins, seem more frequent now that it’s spring, you can thank the combination of high-altitude sun and shifting mountain air. 

Along with the arrival of spring, April is Rosacea Awareness Month. That makes this an ideal opportunity to learn about common triggers and how to prevent them. So, if you’re among the 16 million Americans who suffer from this chronic inflammatory skin condition, read on.

The board-certified dermatologists and experienced Physician Assistant, at Elevation Dermatology in Lakewood, CO,  explain how environmental and other triggers can cause flare-ups and what to do about them.

Managing Rosacea involves pinpointing the biological and external factors that drive inflammation. By recognizing these triggers early in the season, we can implement medical strategies that keep your skin stable and comfortable despite the changing weather.

Here’s what our team wants you to know.

Environmental triggers in Colorado

Spring in Colorado is often unpredictable, with intense sun, wind, and fluctuating temperatures. Each of these factors can cause a flare-up.

• UV radiation: Sunlight is the most frequently reported trigger for rosacea patients. As the sun gets stronger in April, even brief exposure can cause visible flushing.
• Wind and dry air: Colorado is known for its low humidity. Brisk spring winds can strip moisture from the skin, leading to irritation and a compromised skin barrier.
• Temperature swings: Rapid changes from a chilly morning to a warm afternoon can cause blood vessels to expand and contract quickly, often resulting in redness.
• Seasonal allergies: High pollen counts in spring can trigger systemic inflammation, which can sometimes worsen skin sensitivity.

Up to 81 percent of patients report that sun exposure triggers their rosacea. In high-altitude locations like Lakewood, the UV index is often higher than at sea level, making sun protection essential.

We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, regardless of the cloud cover. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are usually better for sensitive skin because they reflect rather than absorb heat.

Lifestyle triggers

Beyond the weather, common triggers include:

• Outdoor exercise: Outdoor workouts can lead to overheating. If you notice your face stays red for a long time after a jog at Bear Creek Lake Park, heat is likely a trigger.
• Spicy foods and hot beverages: These foods or drinks dilate blood vessels.
• Skincare products: Many people switch to lighter products in the spring. However, some spring-themed scents or harsh exfoliants can irritate the skin.

We recommend keeping a diary for two weeks to track your flares. Write down what you ate, the weather conditions, and which products you used. This helps our specialists identify patterns and adjust your treatment accordingly.

Use skincare products made for sensitive skin

Go for fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers. Products containing ingredients such as alcohol, fragrance, menthol, and certain acids can strip the skin of its natural oils. If a product makes your skin sting or burn, it is likely causing more harm than good.

If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products aren't enough, we offer medical interventions, including topical prescriptions, oral medications, and laser therapies. These treatments are designed to reduce persistent redness and treat the acne-like breakouts often associated with the condition.

For help managing rosacea, contact our office today. You can book your appointment by calling us at 303-431-5280.