Factors (called triggers) that may cause a flare-up of rosacea include:

• Weather conditions, such as exposure to wind and hot or cold temperatures.
• Foods, such as drinks with alcohol, hot drinks, or spicy foods.
• Skin care products, such as lotions, creams, or soaps.
• Activities, such as exercise, hot baths, or situations that cause stress.

These triggers cause the blood vessels in the face to relax and open wider (dilate), producing a sudden increase in blood flow and causing the face to flush. Triggers for flushing affect people differently—a trigger that affects one person may not affect another in the same way.