Rosacea in the Summer: Why It Flares — and How to Stay Clear

Updated: Jul 21

If you have rosacea, summer can feel like the season your skin dreads the most. From sun exposure and hot weather to spicy food and pool days, many common summer activities can trigger flare-ups — leaving your face red, irritated, and inflamed.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right tips and treatment, you can enjoy the season without letting your skin hold you back.

☀️ Why Rosacea Flares in the Summer

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. It can be unpredictable — but certain environmental triggers are known to make symptoms worse.

In the summer, these common triggers become more frequent:

Strong sun exposure
Heat and humidity
Outdoor exercise
Spicy foods and BBQ
Alcohol (especially wine and cocktails)
Chlorine from pools
Excessive sweating

All of these can lead to redness, flushing, stinging, and breakouts. Sound familiar?

🧴 How to Keep Rosacea in Check This Season

You can’t change the weather, but you can protect your skin. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to manage rosacea during warmer months:

1. Use Mineral Sunscreen (Every Day!)

Sun exposure is one of the biggest rosacea triggers. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, and reapply if you're outside. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are typically gentler on sensitive skin.

2. Stay Cool

Overheating causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to more flushing. To keep cool:

Stay in the shade or indoors when it’s hot
Use fans or cool compresses on your face
Avoid hot yoga or outdoor workouts at peak heat
Wear a wide-brimmed hat

3. Avoid Known Food & Drink Triggers

Common rosacea triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, and even hot drinks. If you’re flaring, try keeping a food diary to spot patterns.

4. Keep Skincare Simple

Stick to gentle, fragrance-free skincare products. Avoid anything with:

Alcohol
Menthol or eucalyptus
Harsh exfoliants
Astringents or scrubs

A mild cleanser, calming moisturizer, and mineral sunscreen are often all you need.

💬 When to Get Help from a Dermatology Provider

If you're dealing with frequent flares or worsening symptoms, you don’t have to navigate it alone. There are effective prescription options to help manage rosacea — including:

Topical treatments like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin
Low-dose oral antibiotics like doxycycline
Laser therapy (for persistent redness or broken blood vessels)

As a dermatology provider offering virtual care, I can evaluate your skin, prescribe treatment, and help you adjust your routine — all from the comfort of your home.

🌿 Ready to Calm Your Skin?

Rosacea can feel unpredictable, but with the right support and a personalized plan, summer doesn't have to be a season of flare-ups.

📅 Book a virtual dermatology appointment today to get started — and enjoy the rest of the season with clearer, calmer skin.