Diet and Rosacea

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

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.

Related articles

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

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. 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 and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

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. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.