Skin Problems & Treatments Health Center

There are several things you can do to reduce symptoms of rosacea and prevent the condition from getting worse.

• Skin care. Use soaps, lotions, and cosmetics that are made for sensitive skin and do not contain alcohol, are not abrasive, and will not clog pores (noncomedogenic). Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your face. Cosmetics with a green-colored base may help mask the redness of a flare-up. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a clinic that specializes in the use of cosmetics for people with rosacea.
• Use sunscreen. It is important to protect your face from sun exposure. Every day, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen-one that blocks UVA, UVB, and infrared rays-that is rated SPF 15 or higher. It may be hard to find a sunscreen with the right ingredients that does not sting your face. But it's important to look for the right protection for your skin.
• Eye care. Apply warm compresses several times a day, and gently wash your eyelids with a product made for the eyes. Use artificial tears if your eyes feel dry.
• Identify triggers. Make a list or keep a diary of potential triggers when you have a flare-up. The National Rosacea Society has developed a rosacea diary checklist that you can use to keep track of the factors that may be causing symptoms of rosacea. Use the diary every day for several weeks. See the rosacea diary checklist(What is a PDF document?).
• Avoid triggers. After you have identified triggers that cause flare-ups, avoid these triggers to help reduce your symptoms.
  • Use sunscreen on your face every day. Avoid the midday sun, and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Minimize stress in your life. Take care of yourself, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
  • Stay cool on hot, humid days.
  • Limit consumption of alcohol, spicy foods, and hot drinks.
  • Stay as cool as possible when you exercise. Try to exercise for shorter, more frequent intervals, and do low-intensity workouts. In the summer, exercise during the cool morning hours.
  • Use a moisturizer during the winter to protect your face from dryness. Wear a scarf over your cheeks and nose to help protect your skin from the cold and wind.
  • Avoid excessive hot water, hot tubs, and saunas.
  • Use skin care products for sensitive skin. And avoid any products that are abrasive or that irritate your skin.