A common question our practitioner Rebecca hears in the clinic is, What can trigger rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and sensitivity, most commonly across the cheeks, nose, and forehead. While its exact cause isn’t fully understood, several internal and external factors can worsen symptoms or trigger flare-ups. Recognising and managing these triggers is key to keeping skin calm and balanced.
Rebecca explains that rosacea-prone skin is extremely reactive to changes in temperature, environment, and even emotions. Some of the most common triggers include:
Hormonal changes, such as those linked to menopause or certain medications, can also intensify rosacea symptoms. Rebecca notes that gut health and inflammation play a significant role, too. Some people notice flare-ups after consuming foods that are high in histamine or refined sugar, which can trigger inflammatory responses within the body.
Managing rosacea begins with identifying your personal triggers. Rebecca recommends keeping a skin diary to track what causes redness or sensitivity after meals, weather changes, or product use. Incorporating a gentle skincare routine with soothing ingredients such as niacinamide or ceramides can help strengthen the skin barrier. Daily SPF protection is essential, even on cloudy days, to prevent UV-induced inflammation.
For more persistent symptoms, professional treatments like IPL treatment, LED light therapy, Sylfirm X or targeted skincare protocols can help reduce redness and calm reactive skin.
According to Rebecca, rosacea flare-ups are often caused by a combination of environmental, dietary, and emotional factors. While it isn’t curable, understanding your skin’s unique triggers makes it far easier to manage. With consistent care, professional guidance, and protective skincare, rosacea-prone skin can become stronger, calmer, and more resilient over time.
The most common trigger for rosacea is sun exposure. UV light damages the skin barrier and dilates blood vessels, leading to redness and inflammation. Rebecca explains that heat, spicy foods, and alcohol often intensify flare-ups too, but protecting the skin from the sun remains the single most effective way to reduce symptoms. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential for managing rosacea and preventing long-term sensitivity.
To calm a rosacea flare-up, start by cooling and soothing the skin. Gently cleanse with lukewarm water and apply a fragrance-free, calming moisturiser containing ingredients such as niacinamide, ceramides, or aloe vera. Avoid heat, spicy foods, and alcohol for a few days, as these can worsen redness. Rebecca recommends keeping the skincare routine simple and avoiding exfoliation until the skin has settled. If flare-ups persist, LED light therapy or vascular laser treatments can help reduce redness more effectively.
Rosacea is less common in children, but when it does occur, treatment focuses on gentle management rather than active intervention. Rebecca advises using mild, non-irritating cleansers, fragrance-free moisturisers, and daily sun protection. It’s also important to identify triggers such as temperature changes or certain foods. In more severe cases, a dermatologist may recommend prescription creams or oral medication to control inflammation. Early, gentle care can help prevent the condition from worsening and keep the skin comfortable.
