Foods that spike circulation in the face and neck—including chocolate (gasp!)—can cause serious flushing. The most notorious:

• Liver
• Yogurt
• Sour cream
• Cheese (except cottage cheese)
• Vanilla
• Soy sauce
• Yeast extract (bread is ok)
• Vinegar
• Eggplant
• Avocados
• Spinach
• Broad-leaf beans and pods, including lima, navy or pea
• Citrus fruits, as well as tomatoes, bananas, red plums, raisins or figs
• Spicy foods
• Foods high in histamine

QUICK TIP: You’ll have to use trial and error to hone your rosacea-friendly diet, so keep a diary and record your reactions to certain types of foods. Also, keep in mind there are plenty of delicious and healthy treats, including whole grains, cherries and blueberries, which actually help reduce redness.

Cozying up to the fire or enjoying a hot bath or shower might sound comforting, but for those with rosacea, overly warm environments can increase blood flow, with flushing likely to follow.

QUICK TIP: Cleanse with cooler water, which helps constrict (instead of dilate) blood vessels and reduce facial redness. In colder months, keep the thermostat low—just enough to get comfy indoors.

When it comes to effective rosacea management, it’s best not to brave the elements. In a survey by the National Rosacea Society, 81% said sun exposure was trigger #1.

QUICK TIP: Always, always, always wear a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection) sunscreen, with an SPF of 30 or higher, even in the cooler months, and in the car. Wind can also be particularly vicious, so be sure to shield your skin with a hat and scarf.

Another rosacea myth? It’s synonymous with alcohol abuse. Actually, alcohol does not cause rosacea—but as little as one drink can aggravate flare-ups (especially red wine—the worst offender). Hot drinks, including hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee or tea, can also cause flushing.

QUICK TIP: As a general rule, limit alcohol consumption and reduce the temperature of hot beverages. If you feel flushed in either scenario, follow with a glass of cool water or chew on ice chips to help reduce flares.

Dealing with rosacea can be stressful, but it’s that stress that can actually bring on more flushing.

QUICK TIP: Practicing simple stress management techniques may help squelch tension-fueled flare-ups. Eat healthy, get plenty of rest and practice deep breathing exercises throughout the day. Learn more about the emotional impact of rosacea.

Rosacea-prone skin tends to be sensitive, so while it’s important to apply sunscreen daily and moisturize in those bitter winter months, certain products (like cosmetics and hair sprays with alcohol) can be less than friendly.

QUICK TIP: Cleanse with products that are alcohol and fragrance free, rinsing with lukewarm water and blotting the face dry with a soft cotton towel. Learn more about smart rosacea skin care.

As you now know, rosacea is a medical condition. Unfortunately, other conditions, including menopause, chronic cough and high blood pressure, can trigger flare-ups.

QUICK TIP: As always, talk with your dermatologist about all the symptoms you’re experiencing, and ask how to balance care for all of your conditions.

Working up a good sweat is vital to healthy living, but intense exercise can lead to overheating—and trigger flare-ups.

QUICK TIP: Stay in shape with lower-intensity routines, with more frequent intervals. If you’re going for an outdoor jog, step out when the sun’s at its weakest (early morning or evening). In cool-down mode, drink plenty of fluids and wrap a damp towel around your neck.