How to keep Rosacea prone skin healthy during winter |
As I write this, (2/11/2019) we are currently under a rare winter storm advisory in Seattle. We have almost a foot of snow outside, with more coming down, and the school closures just keep coming.
Even spending 20 minutes outside can make or break my face if I'm not taking precautions. Don't let winter unleash havoc on your Rosacea.
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6 Winter Skin Care Tips to protect your rosacea-prone sensitive skin from flushing, burning, and stinging:
1. Cover Up
Windburn is a real thing, have you had it? I used to get it after a day of skiing. After 8 hours or more, of cold wind hitting my cheeks, I was left with redness, burning and dryness.Whether it's windy or not, just being outside in cold temperatures can chap your skin. Shield exposed areas with a light-weight scarf or other cover-up to protect your skin from windburn and chapping.
2. Wear Sunscreen
No matter what your skin type, "Sunscreen 365" should be your motto. Sun still shines its rays through clouds and loves to bounce off of snow and water. Whether it's cold and cloudy or hot and balmy, sunscreen will protect your skin from the elements and keep it healthier. I love the lightweight Eucerin Daily Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen and wear it every day of the year.3. Dress in layers
I run hot by nature, so the minute I'm in a hot room, I get nervous that my face will start to flush and result in a Rosacea flare.The best solution for keeping your temperature at bay in the winter, is to dress in layers. If you're in a cool room, you'll stay comfortable, if you're in a cozy room with the fireplace blazing, you can shed a few layers before you start to over heat. Try to keep your body temperature as even as possible so you don't get flushed. Your face will thank you.
PS Wearing these soft merino wool socks that I love from Costco on my feet, help to keep my temperature more even too! You can buy them through the link or pick some up at Costco.
Also watch out for hot tubs, saunas and hot drinks. Anything that causes your body temperature to rise and your face to flush can be problematic for sensitive skin and rosacea. Be aware that for some, alcoholic drinks like red wine, and foods like hot salsas can also have the same affect on your face.
4. Temperature Matters
It's normal to climb out of a warm bed and want to jump into a hot shower to combat the shock of a cold house. Hot temperatures, however, especially hot water running over your face, can result in flushing and can cause sensitive skin to react. Keep the shower water temperature comfortable, but don't go overly hot.Also watch out for hot tubs, saunas and hot drinks. Anything that causes your body temperature to rise and your face to flush can be problematic for sensitive skin and rosacea. Be aware that for some, alcoholic drinks like red wine, and foods like hot salsas can also have the same affect on your face.
5. Wash gently
Another one of those mottos you should adopt, especially if you have Rosacea or sensitive skin, is "Wash gently 365". Especially during the winter months when your skin is prone to irritation, always treat it gently. If you do slip-up and get windburn, (or even sunburn during a day out in the snow), it's important to pamper your damaged skin to get it healthy again.Always wash with a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin and always opt for a soft face cloth to protect your skin from harsh textures that can damage your skin barrier. I LOVE Vanicream Gentle Cleanser and will forever only use Fairface soft flannel face cloths on my face! Protect that sweet skin barrier of yours!
6. Don't get too dry
We all know that indoor heaters and outdoor cold temperatures can cause extra dryness (and even micro-cracking) to our skin during the winter. According to the National Rosacea Society, using a moisturizer every day is key for building a strong moisture barrier and preventing burning, stinging, itching and irritation. I, personally, opt for a bit heavier moisturizer during the cold months. I LOVE Cerave Moisturizing Cream, tho truth be told, I love it so much I use it all year round!And always remember to stay hydrated! This is something I need to work on. Drink more water even when you don't feel like it to keep your body and skin hydrated. You will feel it in your skin if you don't.
*This post contains product links, added for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through Amazon.com.
Do you have any skin care advice to keep Rosacea skin calm during the cold winter months? We'd love to know!
Shannon Sorensen is the Founder and CEO of Fairface Washcloths. All expressed opinions are personal and are not meant to substitute a physicians care. Please seek the help of a dermatologist to get the help you need.
Shannon Sorensen is the Founder and CEO of Fairface Washcloths. All expressed opinions are personal and are not meant to substitute a physicians care. Please seek the help of a dermatologist to get the help you need.