Can What You Eat Trigger Rosacea Flare Ups?
If you’re one of the more than 3 million Americans dealing with rosacea every year, you may already have an understanding of some of the lifestyle choices that can affect your skin condition. Things like heat, humidity, wind exposure, and even stress are among the most common triggers of rosacea flare ups, but did you know that what’s on your plate could also be contributing to flushed, irritated skin?
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin condition that is most notably characterized by a red or pink flushing of the cheeks, although other symptoms like facial burning, stinging, and itching, along with small acne-like bumps can also occur. Although there’s currently no conclusive evidence to suggest a definite cause of rosacea, many experts believe that a variety of factors may be at play. These could include genetics, facial blood vessels that dilate too easily, sun damage, and even microscopic skin mites. (The American Academy of Dermatology)
What Foods Can Cause Flare Ups?
While the exact causes of the skin condition itself remain unidentified, there are certain known triggers that can have an effect on rosacea flare ups, including the foods you’re eating. In fact, some research suggests that those who suffer from rosacea may have a higher prevalence of gut bacteria overgrowth, which may contribute to disease. So by choosing your foods carefully and knowing which ones to avoid, you could help to reduce the likelihood of a flare up. Here are some of the foods to stay away from:
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- Dairy, including yogurt, cheese, and sour cream
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- Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
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- Chocolate
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- Spicy foods
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- Eggplant
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- Avocados
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- Vinegar
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- Alcohol
- Hot beverages, including coffee, tea, and hot cider (National Rosacea Society)
What Can You Do to Calm Rosacea?
Although there isn’t a cure for rosacea, there are things you can do to help control it. First, try to avoid the foods listed above, especially in large quantities. Secondly, there are some foods that you can eat to actually help calm your skin, including leafy greens, lentils, asparagus, kale, and other high-fiber foods. Additionally, taking probiotic supplements may help to boost the body’s immune system and reduce the bad bacteria in the gut. It can also be a good idea to keep a food diary of certain foods that you notice can aggravate your rosacea, as well as those that seem to help the condition. That way, you can create a personal list of foods to both avoid and include in your daily diet. (Everyday Health)
In addition, you’ll want to make sure you’re washing your face regularly, but only with gentle, non-abrasive soaps and try to also avoid rough washcloths, sponges, or loofahs. When drying your face, be sure to blot it gently with a soft towel rather than rubbing it, and try not to pick or scratch at your face, even if blemishes or itchiness occur.
Professional Skin Care Treatments for Rosacea
If you have rosacea, you should talk with your dermatologist to find the best treatment plan for you. In some cases, antibiotics can be prescribed, as well as topical medication that can help to soothe and calm the skin. In the case of permanent redness of the skin caused by rosacea, there are professional skin care treatments that can significantly improve the complexion and evenness of your skin.
At Acqua Blu Medical Spa in Pittsburgh and Wexford, we offer ClearScan Vascular & Redness treatment to our clients dealing with rosacea. ClearScan is a nonsurgical laser treatment that targets the dilated blood vessels and capillaries that cause the redness associated with this skin condition. Our board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ana Busquets, along with Dr. Susannah McClain and physician assistant Christopher Foti would be happy to assess your skin and design a treatment plan custom-tailored to meet your needs.
For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (724) 933-1800 and take the first step towards looking and feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin.
