Rosacea is a chronic facial skin condition that causes redness, flushing, stinging, and a hot sensation. Some estimates suggest up to one in 10 people experience rosacea, with symptoms often worsening during winter due to cold air, dry conditions, and indoor heating.

Although there is no cure, dermatologists say flare ups can often be reduced by identifying and avoiding triggers. Environmental factors play a role, but everyday habits are frequently overlooked.

Dr Conal Perrett, a consultant dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, says misconceptions about the condition commonly lead to poor management.

“Misconceptions and misinformation often lead sufferers to choose the wrong products, self-diagnose incorrectly, or overlook surprising triggers in their daily routines. Rosacea is far more complicated than just having ‘sensitive skin’ or ‘going red’. Many people treat it like acne or irritation, and this almost always makes things worse.

“Common mistakes include using harsh exfoliants or active ingredients that strip the skin’s natural barrier, overheating the skin and then using heavy, oily products that block heat release from the skin, assuming the redness is temporary and avoiding professional help.”

Everyday habits that can trigger winter flare ups

Dr Perrett identifies 10 common habits that can intensify rosacea symptoms during colder months.

1. Spicy foods. Ingredients such as chilli, cayenne, curry powders, and black pepper increase blood flow to the skin, leading to prolonged flushing. Spices warm the body from the inside out, and for rosacea patients that internal heat rush is enough to tip them into a flare.
2. Alcohol. Alcohol dilates facial blood vessels, making redness more visible. Red wine is often the most problematic due to histamines and tannins. Alcohol acts like fuel on the fire, even small amounts can undo an otherwise calm skin day.
3. Hot drinks. The temperature of drinks, rather than caffeine, is the issue. Very hot beverages can provoke flushing. Sip warm, not boiling as the heat causes a vascular response that many people underestimate.
4. Beauty and hair products. Aerosols, fragranced products, retinoids, exfoliants, and harsh cleansers can irritate sensitive skin. Hairspray settling on the face can also trigger symptoms. Anything airborne or overly active can provoke rosacea, gentleness and simplicity are crucial.
5. Exercise related overheating. Intense cardio, hot yoga, or excessive gym layering can rapidly raise facial temperature. Movement is healthy, but overheating is not, cooling breaks are essential for rosacea sufferers.
6. Certain foods. Aged cheeses, fermented foods, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and chocolate may cause inflammation or vasodilation in some individuals. Trigger foods vary person to person, but once someone identifies theirs, the improvement can be dramatic.
7. Clothing. Tight collars, wool scarves, and heat trapping fabrics can rub against the face and retain warmth. Friction is an underestimated trigger, anything that rubs or presses against the face can provoke a flare, especially in cold weather. Soft fabrics and a looser fit make a huge difference.
8. Fragrances. Perfumes, scented detergents, and fragranced skincare products can worsen redness through irritation or micro inflammation. Fragrance is a common yet overlooked irritant, fragrance-free is the safest route for rosacea-prone skin.
9. Hot baths and showers. Prolonged exposure to steam and high water temperatures can cause immediate flushing and further weaken the skin barrier. Lower the temperature slightly, even a few degrees can prevent the skin from spiralling into a flare-up.
10. Rapid temperature changes. Moving from cold outdoor air into overheated rooms, sitting near radiators, or using fan heaters can shock facial blood vessels. Rapid temperature changes are one of the quickest ways to trigger flushing, consistency is your best defence.

Managing flare ups

“Most people are surprised by how easily rosacea can be provoked, from temperature changes to food choices or skincare fragrance, but what matters most is how you respond once a flare begins,” says Dr Perrett.

“Simple steps like cooling the skin gently, avoiding further heat exposure, and switching to bland, fragrance-free products for 24-48 hours can significantly shorten the episode.

“Rosacea is absolutely manageable, but only when people understand the condition. Education is key. Once patients recognise their personal triggers and stop treating rosacea like a standard, short-term irritation, the improvement in symptoms can be remarkable.”

Dr Perrett adds that effective control often combines lifestyle adjustments with medical care, including prescription topical treatments and, in some cases, vascular laser therapy to reduce persistent redness and flushing.