Why Does My Rosacea Keep Flaring Up?

Are you frustrated by recurrent rosacea? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people struggle with chronic rosacea symptoms that leave them feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious about their skin. At VivaSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics in Wellesley, MA, Dr. Hyemin Pomerantz understands the unique challenges that rosacea presents and is proud to help patients find relief from their symptoms and love their skin with a comprehensive suite of highly effective rosacea treatments. In this blog, you’ll learn more about what may be causing your rosacea to flare up, how to prevent future flare-ups, and what treatment options you have to get the clear, beautiful complexion you deserve.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a fairly common skin condition that causes a number of unwanted side effects, including:

• Facial flushing
• Redness
• Irritation
• Swelling
• Bumps on the skin
• Pink or red raised spots
• Pustules
• Visible blood vessels
• Itchiness
• Burning sensation
• Thick, leathery skin
• Thick, lumpy skin on the nose

What causes rosacea?

There are a number of potential underlying causes of rosacea, many of which are still being studied by researchers today. Some of the most likely causes (and risk factors) contributing to rosacea include:

• Genetics
• Bacteria and associated immune response
• Skin mites

While these are potential causes for rosacea, an active episode – called a flare-up – is typically brought on by specific triggers.

What triggers rosacea flare-ups?

Rosacea triggers can vary from person to person. Some of the most common triggers for rosacea include:

• Diet
• Sun exposure
• Heat or cold
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Stimulants
• Irritative topical products

How can I prevent a rosacea flare-up?

Understanding what is triggering your rosacea and making behavioral modifications accordingly is one of the most effective ways to avoid future flare-ups. For example, if you notice that your rosacea begins to flare up every time you eat a spicy meal or drink alcohol, it may be helpful to avoid these triggers. In addition to altering your diet and lifestyle, professional rosacea treatments can help to calm an active flare-up and discourage subsequent episodes of rosacea.

How is rosacea treated?

Patients today have more options for treating the symptoms of rosacea and minimizing future flare-ups than ever before. During your initial consultation for rosacea treatment in the Dover, MA area, Dr. Pomerantz will thoroughly evaluate your skin, review your health history, identify behaviors that may be triggering your rosacea, and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment for you. In many cases, a combination of rosacea treatments is the most effective option and may include:

• Behavioral modification
• Over-the-counter products
• Oral medications
• Laser skin treatment

In more severe cases, like when the skin on the nose has become thick or tough (rhinophyma), surgery may be necessary to prevent permanent damage or disfigurement.

With early intervention, trigger avoidance, and consistent treatment, patients can finally find relief from their rosacea flare-ups and feel confident about their complexion.

Calm your skin’s redness and irritation with professional rosacea treatment in Wellesley, MA

If rosacea flare-ups are preventing you from enjoying your favorite activities or feeling confident around others, we can help. Call VivaSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics in Wellesley, MA to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Hyemin Pomerantz, and take the first step toward clear, healthy skin today.