Which foods should be avoided in the case of rosacea?

While there are certain internal causes of rosacea, external factors can also trigger flare-ups. Diet, in particular, plays a role in the onset of rosacea-specific symptoms, such as redness and hot flushes. If you suffer from this skin condition, here are the foods it is advisable to avoid.

Spicy foods.

The capsaicin, found notably in chilli peppers, bell peppers and black pepper, is likely to stimulate the activity of the TRVP1 receptor, involved in nociceptive mechanisms. The stimulation of this receptor releases neuropeptides, such as PACAP and CGRP. These act on the blood vessels, causing vasodilation which is at the origin of the blushing and persistent erythema found in rosacea. The consumption of these foods would thus contribute to the development of inflammations observed in cases of rosacea. It would also exacerbate the irritations and hot flushes associated with the disease.

Alcoholic beverages.

The consumption of alcohol leads to an increase in the diameter of blood capillaries, which then become more visible. This phenomenon is sometimes accompanied by hot flushes. The ethanol present in alcoholic beverages is indeed a vasodilator. It facilitates the flow of body heat to the skin, thereby increasing its temperature.

A study involving approximately 80 individuals was conducted over 14 years to highlight the existing link between alcohol consumption and rosacea. The researchers concluded that there is a correlation, albeit weak, between these two factors.

Hot beverages.

Whether it's tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, it is advised against consuming these very hot beverages when suffering from rosacea. It's important to note that it's not these drinks themselves that are the issue, but their temperature. Consumed very hot, they promote the dilation of blood vessels, which leads to redness and hot flushes.

Dairy products.

The consumption of dairy products by individuals suffering from rosacea is highly controversial. Scientific studies contradict each other on this matter: some highlight that dairy products may promote rosacea flare-ups, while others suggest they might instead help to alleviate them. The mechanisms behind these properties remain unclear.

Fatty foods.

It has been demonstrated that a diet high in fats can cause a disruption in the synthesis of ceramides, which are involved in the structure of the skin and skin health. Indeed, saturated fatty acids are responsible for reducing the level of serine-C-palmitoyltransferase (SPT) in the skin, an enzyme involved in the secretion of ceramides.

Ceramides are lipids that form part of the skin barrier and protect the epidermis. A diet high in fats weakens this barrier, making the skin more prone to the development of blemishes or skin conditions. Some studies have indeed highlighted thatexcessive consumption of fatty foods can exacerbate rosacea flare-ups, as well as itching and burning sensations.

Foods high in histamine, such as strawberries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes.

The histamine molecule acts as a mediator in many allergic pathologies. It notably promotes certain inflammatory mechanisms, as well as a vasodilation of the blood vessels and an increase in capillary permeability. Thus, histamine encourages the appearance of symptoms such as hot flushes or redness, found in individuals suffering from rosacea.

Foods rich in cinnamaldehyde, such as cinnamon.

Foods with a high content of cinnamaldehyde can also exacerbate rosacea flare-ups. According to some studies, this molecule interacts with the TRPA1 receptor, causing the dilation of blood vessels and the onset of redness. However, the amount of cinnamaldehyde required to trigger a rosacea episode has not been specified.

Individuals with rosacea do not always react the same way to different foods. The best way to determine what is good or not for you is to keep a detailed food diary, noting the frequency and intensity of rosacea flare-ups.