What lifestyle modifications should I recommend to patients with acne 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: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

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

  • Avoidance of known trigger factors wherever possible; keeping a diary may help identify personal triggers that exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
  • Use effective sun protection by applying high-factor sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and avoiding 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, social, and occupational wellbeing.

These lifestyle and self-care measures are important adjuncts to medical treatment and aim to minimize symptom flares and improve quality of life.

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