Rosacea is a skin condition of unknown cause. It affects millions of Americans, in particular those with fairer skin and of English, Irish and Scottish heritage. The condition itself cannot be prevented or cured. Without treatment, it tends to become progressively worse over time. However, there are many treatments available to prevent flare-ups and improve your rosacea.

1. Identify and avoid your rosacea triggers. It is important to identify the triggers that cause your rosacea to flare up. By identifying these triggers, you can avoid them, thus preventing the flare-up. Different people have different factors that trigger their rosacea. What may act as a trigger for one person may not affect another. Common triggers, however, include:

• Alcohol
• Hot or spicy foods or beverages
• Weather and temperature, including hot, cold, windy and sunny conditions
• Emotional stress, anger or embarrassment
• Menopause
• Caffeine
• Strenuous exercise
• Hot baths or saunas
• Long-term use of topical corticosteroids (cortisone) on the face
• Drugs that open the blood vessels (vasodilators), such as some blood pressure medications

2. Combat dry skin. Rosacea is often associated with dry skin. Furthermore, dry skin can worsen the symptoms of rosacea. Because of this, maintaining proper moisture in the skin is an important aspect of rosacea treatment and prevention.