What lifestyle modifications should I advise patients with rosacea to help manage their symptoms?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025Updated: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Lifestyle modifications for patients with rosacea to help manage symptoms include:

  • Avoid known trigger factors wherever possible; keeping a diary may help identify personal stimuli that exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
  • Use effective sun protection by applying high-factor sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and avoid sunbeds; ultraviolet protection sunglasses may be beneficial, especially for those with ocular rosacea features.
  • Adopt gentle skincare routines using regular non-oily emollients if the skin is dry and gentle, soap-free cleansers to maintain skin barrier integrity and reduce sensitivity.
  • Consider the use of yellow- or green-tinted cosmetics to camouflage skin erythema, and offer referral to a skin camouflage service if appropriate.
  • Manage any associated psychosocial comorbidities, as rosacea can impact emotional and social wellbeing.

These lifestyle measures aim to minimize symptom triggers, protect the skin, and improve quality of life for people with rosacea.

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