Diet and Rosacea

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon
Last updated 2025-02-02

Many patients ask me about the role of diet in rosacea. It is important to understand that food choices do not cause rosacea. However, while diet is not the root cause of rosacea, for some patients, certain foods and drinks can act as triggers for flushing and inflammation.

Which foods are most linked to flare-ups?

Triggers are individual, but common dietary triggers include the following:

• Hot beverages: Coffee, tea.
• Alcohol: Especially red wine.
• Spicy foods: Containing capsaicin (chillies, peppers).
• Histamine-rich foods: Aged cheeses, processed meats, fermented foods, spinach, tomatoes. These are particularly relevant for those with histamine intolerance.
• Foods containing cinnamaldehyde: Cinnamon, citrus fruits, chocolate.

How do I track and quantify triggers?

The most effective method is a trigger diary. For 2-4 weeks, log everything you eat and drink, alongside a daily record of your skin's condition (e.g., redness level from 1-10, number of new spots). This can help you identify patterns between specific foods and subsequent flares, which typically occur within minutes to hours after consumption.

Eliminating foods from your diet for a few weeks is the only way to be sure whether they are relevant. I have many patients who have tried eliminating certain foods from their diet and for the vast majority this has not led to a significant improvement in their skin.

How can I help

I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.

Related articles

• Common Rosacea Triggers and How to Avoid Them
• Histamine Intolerance and Rosacea Flares
• SIBO and Rosacea

About Dr Magnus Lynch

MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis, Mohs micrographic surgery, acne, rosacea, acne scarring and laser treatments. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John's Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King's College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer. In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions.

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at OneWelbeck (near to Bond Street station) and on Harley Street. Book A Consultation.