Looking Red & Inflamed? These Surprising (& Healthy!) Foods Can Cause Flushing

We often talk about the diet-skin connection here. Much of the discussion centers around what you can eat to support your natural collagen production, enhance hydration, and, well, just look more glowy. But minding what you're consuming becomes even more of a priority when you have inflammation-related skin conditions: Research has shown time and again that what you eat can affect your complexion, especially if you are genetically predisposed to skin conditions such as rosacea. 

Now, when you think of flare-up-causing foods, I'm betting some of these come to mind: cheese and dairy, high-sugar snacks, and fast food. Certainly I know when I indulge in these I expect a potential rosacea flush. But here's the kicker: It's not just these stereotypical iffy treats that trigger redness. According to board-certified dermatologist Estee Williams, M.D., who specializes in rosacea, even "healthy" foods can be a trigger. 

And when she says long, she means it. According to the survey done by the society, some 30-plus foods have the ability to cause flare-ups. These findings are further supported by research, including a 2021 literature review that found common trigger foods1 included the more obvious ones (alcohol and coffee) but also several foods that are otherwise considered good for you, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, bananas, peas, yogurt, and even surprising histamine-rich foods like avocado, dried fruits, and spinach. 

So what can be done? Well, there are amazing topicals you can lean on, such as azelaic acid and oat extracts, to help reduce redness. You can also get your fill of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which research shows can play something of a protective role1. And of course, you can visit your dermatologist for prescriptions to help manage symptoms.