Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face. It is estimated that rosacea affects over 16 million Americans annually. Although the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, certain factors can trigger its symptoms. One of these factors is food. Certain foods can trigger rosacea symptoms, while others can help soothe them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the most common foods that can trigger rosacea flare-ups and the foods that can help soothe them.
How is rosacea exacerbated by food intake?
Doctors have observed that some foods may trigger a rosacea flare-up. While the research on the relationship between rosacea and food intake is scarce, some foods have been identified as common triggers for a rosacea flare-up. Some of these common triggers include:
Alcohol
Alcohol is a common trigger for rosacea symptoms. Red wine, in particular, has been shown to cause flushing and redness. This is because alcohol increases blood flow to the skin, which can aggravate rosacea symptoms. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid alcohol or limit your intake.
Spicy foods
Spicy foods can also trigger rosacea symptoms. This is because capsaicin, the compound that makes foods spicy, can cause blood vessels in the skin to dilate, leading to flushing and redness. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid spicy foods or limit your intake.
Hot drinks
Hot drinks, such as coffee and tea, can also trigger rosacea symptoms. This is because heat increases blood flow to the skin, which can aggravate rosacea symptoms. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid hot drinks or let them cool down before drinking.
Food with cinnamaldehyde
Cinnamaldehyde is a compound found in cinnamon, which is commonly used in baked goods and desserts. This compound can cause flushing and redness in some people with rosacea. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid foods that contain cinnamon or limit your intake.
Histamine-rich foods
Histamine is a compound that is released by the immune system in response to allergens. Some foods, such as cheese, fermented foods, and cured meats, contain high levels of histamine. In some people with rosacea, histamine can trigger symptoms. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid histamine-rich foods or limit your intake.
Foods that help soothe rosacea
While certain foods can trigger rosacea symptoms, others can help soothe them. Here are some foods that can help alleviate rosacea symptoms:
– Leafy greens: Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and arugula, are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
– Cold-water fish: Cold-water fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
– Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve gut health. Some studies have shown that probiotics can help alleviate rosacea symptoms.
– Green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
– Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a gentle and soothing food that can help calm irritated skin.
Best probiotics for rosacea
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help support gut health and boost the immune system’s function. They have anti-inflammatory effects and can improve skin health in people with rosacea. Some of the best probiotics for rosacea include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria. Here are some of the best probiotics for rosacea:
– Lactobacillus acidophilus
– Bifidobacterium bifidum
– Lactobacillus fermentum
– Lactobacillus plantarum
– Streptococcus thermophilus
These strains can be found in probiotic supplements or fermented foods such as kefir and kimchi. If you are interested in on the shelf probiotics, read the labels carefully to find the specific bacteria listed above, for best rosacea soothing results.
How does rosacea manifest?
Rosacea is a chronic condition that can flare up and go into remission. The symptoms of rosacea vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
– Flushing of the skin
– Persistent redness
– Pimples and bumps that resemble acne
– Visible blood vessels
– Burning or stinging sensation in the skin
Skincare tips for rosacea
Taking good care of your skin is essential to manage rosacea and keep it looking its best. Start by using gentle cleansers on a regular basis and make sure you’re wearing sunscreen every day. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating as this can irritate already sensitive skin.
Additionally, try sticking with lukewarm water when cleansing—hot water can be irritating for rosacea sufferers and can exacerbate existing symptoms.
Furthermore, keep in mind that the ingredients in skincare products can also cause sensitivity reactions on your skin. Scour the labels of skincare products, and avoid products containing silicones parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances and colors. Go for clean, clinically proven products that are dermatologically tested to be safe and sensitive skin appropriate.
Note to finish
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that can be aggravated by certain foods. If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid or limit your intake of alcohol, spicy foods, food with cinnamaldehyde, hot drinks, and histamine-rich foods. On the other hand, you can help soothe rosacea symptoms by incorporating leafy greens, cold-water fish, probiotics, green tea, and oatmeal into your diet. Always consult with your doctor or dermatologist, even when deciding whether to start taking probiotics or changing your diet. Don’t forget to upgrade your skincare routine with safe, nourishing skincare formulas, that help soothe and calm the skin. With the right diet and treatment plan, you can manage your rosacea symptoms and improve your quality of life.