The association between hot weather and rosacea is fairly simple. Extreme heat can easily cause a person’s complexion to become stressed, which typically results in the blood vessels becoming enlarged, producing the flushed appearance and inflammation. When it comes to cold weather, however, most rosacea sufferers may think the cooler temperatures would be ideal for keeping their complexions in better condition. But in many cases that could not be farther from the truth.
Because complexions with rosacea do not have properly functioning barriers to protect the skin from foreign substances while keeping moisture intact, this leaves it vulnerable to any type of extreme temperature change - cold weather included. In the winter, a person with rosacea will experience their complexion drying out much easier due to loss of moisture, resulting in higher sensitivity to anything that is put on it, including skincare products. The appearance of tiny cracks is also a common symptom of this skin condition, which can cause discomfort when treating the area.
So what is a person with rosacea to do when the weather starts to get colder? Luckily, there are a couple of solutions you can try in order to keep your skin happy this winter. The first is to minimize your exposure from extreme cold to extreme heat. This includes going from being outdoors in cold temperatures to being indoors with the heater blasting. The back and forth in temperature is the fastest way to aggravate your skin. When this can’t be prevented, make sure you use a scarf or other type of winter clothing that will protect your complexion while out in the elements. To reinforce your skin’s health, use sunscreen - even during the winter. If your face tends to get very dry during the winter, purchase a humidifier for your home. On those cold nights your humidifier should be combined with your heater so that you not only stay warm but are pampering your skin at the same time. A heater alone can strip moisture from your face, further aggravating your rosacea.
Stress also plays a crucial element in how your complexion appears so do your best to keep your stress levels down during the winter. It’s easier said than done, but once you start to see the change in your skin for the better, you’ll be even more motivated to do right by your complexion. In terms of skincare products, invest in moisturizers that use natural ingredients for improving hydration and reinforcing your complexion’s protective barrier. Look for skincare products with gentle ingredients that are formulated for sensitive skin types. You may also want to increase your intake of certain fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain and replenish your skin’s oil levels.
