Causes of Rosacea


Although the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, there are certain triggers that play a vital role in the development of this skin disorder. People who are in the age group of 30-50 years have the highest risk of developing Rosacea. Similarly, fair-skinned people and women in particular are more likely to develop rosacea. Some of the main risk factors and causes of rosacea include:

  • Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun not only causes rosacea but also worsens this skin condition. Sun exposure may result in major rosacea flare-ups in such cases.
  • Strenuous Exercise: Strenuous exercise causes extreme flushing that in turn can trigger rosacea. It is therefore advisable to exercise in a cool environment and stay well hydrated to lower the risk of rosacea.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Although alcohol does not directly cause rosacea, it may trigger flare-ups. Alcoholic drinks like red wine and beer contain histamines and are very common triggers.
  • Spicy Foods: Spicy foods are definitely a trigger for Rosacea flare-ups. These foods may cause a dilation of blood vessels in the face, increase the redness, and aggravate the outbreak of rosacea.
  • Hot Foods: The temperature of the foods we eat is another likely trigger for rosacea. Piping hot foods and beverages like soups, coffee, and other foods can increase the inflammation and redness in the face resulting in rosacea. It is always advisable to eat mild temperature foods to avoid rosacea flare-ups.
  • Dairy Products: Dairy products, especially cheese, may trigger and worsen rosacea symptoms in sufferers. Yogurt and sour milk are also big culprits in worsening this skin condition.
  • Cosmetics: Studies have shown that certain cosmetics and skin care products also play a part in the development of rosacea. Therefore, it is always better to test cosmetic products before use to minimize the risk of rosacea.
  • Medications: Certain oral medications and topical applications may result in rosacea. Chemical face peels and procedures like microdermabrasion are often big triggers of this skin condition.
  • Certain Fruits and Vegetables: Although fruits and vegetables are generally good for skin and overall health, they may sometimes act as triggers of rosacea. Tomatoes, figs, bananas, raisins, plums, avocados, spinach, eggplant, and beans are all known triggers of rosacea.

Frequently asked questions
References
  1. Michelle T. Pelle, Glen H. Crawford, William D. James, Rosacea: II. Therapy, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 51, Issue 4, October 2004, Pages 499-512, ISSN 0190-9622, 10.1016/j.jaad.2004.03.033.
  2. T. Jansen, Clinical presentations and classification of rosacea, Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie, Volume 138, Supplement 3, November 2011, Pages S192-S200, ISSN 0151-9638, 10.1016/S0151-9638(11)70089-8.