Tackling rosacea flare-ups — as well as a time when redness may be helpful — were discussed at the recent American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting in Boston.

Dr. Hilary Baldwin, associate professor of dermatology at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, presented on the phenomenon of “mask rosacea” during the pandemic. She noted that face masks may aggravate rosacea in several ways, including increasing temperature, humidity and sebum production; disrupting skin barrier function; and causing changes in the skin microbiome.

While protective face masks may both hide and exacerbate the signs and symptoms of rosacea, the 16 million Americans who suffer from this disorder now have access to more treatment options and sophisticated medical care than ever before. The National Rosacea Society (NRS) has designated April as Rosacea Awareness Month to educate the public on this common and potentially serious facial condition, and to urge those who suspect they may have it to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and the most up-to-date therapy.

Almost from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, people with acne and rosacea have reported new or worsening symptoms due to long hours wearing protective face masks. Now a study examining mask-related rosacea and acne symptoms, popularly referred to as “maskne,” during the COVID-19 pandemic confirms that not only does prolonged mask-wearing cause them to get worse, but quality of life suffers as well.¹

For many rosacea patients, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a visible impact on their skin, making special care more important than ever. Here are some tips for avoiding flare-ups during these often stressful times.

Stick to routines: “It’s important to stick to your skin care routine, keep your schedule, and maintain the semblance of a normal life, even if you aren’t going to be leaving the house or working like you might normally,” said dermatologist and psychiatrist Dr. Amy Wechsler.