Rosacea patients are well-aware that the heat is their enemy. Staying out of the hot gaze of the sun and keeping cool with shade and water are basic tenets of rosacea control. So, it’s no wonder that rosacea patients breathe a sigh of relief at winter’s arrival.
But just because the weather is cool does not mean rosacea patients can slack off on their routine. If you live with this condition, you have to adjust to the new set of challenges this season brings. The triggers may come in different forms but learning how to recognise and act on them is the key to managing rosacea. Here are some tips to help rosacea patients have healthy winter skin.
Protection from sudden changes in temperature
With the temperature drop, it’s easier to go outdoors without worrying too much about flare-ups. But when it’s cold, people seek warmth. Whether it’s turning up the thermostat, taking a steaming bath, or sipping on a hot drink, that abrupt change from cold to hot could be bad for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.
To protect against this, refrain from going overboard with the heat. Keep the thermostat at a temperature that is not drastically different from the outdoors or give your skin time to adjust to the different temperatures. Avoid hot water, whether drinking it or bathing in it. To easily adjust to the temperature changes as you go to work, school, or errands, wear layered clothing.
Protection from the sun
The heat of the sun may not be as aggravating as it is in the summer, but the risk of its UV rays is still there. Be especially mindful of this if you are lucky enough to visit the snow. UV can be worse in the snow as snow absorbs only about 10% of UV radiation, unlike grass and soil that absorbs roughly 90% of it. The bulk is then reflected towards things on the snow, including unsuspecting people. The result is not only a UV burn but a flare in your rosacea.
That’s why slathering on sunscreen should be done all throughout the year, regardless of season. Choose a broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen with at least SPF30. You might want to shift to a creamier formulation than the one you use in warmer seasons for longer-lasting moisturising effects. Make sure to apply it on every part of your face and reapply at least every two hours for maximal protection.
Protection from the wind
The cold gusts of wind can really do a number on rosacea-prone skin. It strips away at the protective barrier and irritates the skin, potentially causing flare-ups. To protect against this, wear a scarf or ski mask when spending a long time outdoors.
Protection from dryness
The low humidity is yet another reason why winter is bad for rosacea patients. Dry skin is not as good as protecting our bodies as well-hydrated skin and doesn’t look as good either. Moisturising is a crucial part of any rosacea skin regimen, but you’ll have to up your game if you’re fighting against an already dry atmosphere.
You can change your formulation to something heavier and creamier for the winter. Keep a bottle with you at all times so you can reapply as often as needed.
Conclusion
Winter brings its own set of challenges to rosacea-prone skin, but there are ways to manage it. As long as you adjust your products and habits to minimise triggers and stick to your doctor’s orders on rosacea treatments, you can minimise the flare-ups and achieve healthy skin during the winter months.
Purpose of this information
The information presented on this website and in this article is for general information and example purposes only, does not contain health advice specific for users and must not be relied on for that purpose. Please see your GP, dermatologist or other health care professional for specific advice.
