Not everyone looks forward to fun in the summer sun. If sunny days trigger your rosacea, you're not alone: Three out of five people with rosacea say that sun exposure causes flare-ups, and more than half are affected by hot weather. Here are some tips for taking care of your skin this summer:

  • Always protect your skin from the sun. Be sure to wear a sunscreen with an SPF (sun-protection factor) of 15 or higher every day, including cloudy ones. You're still at risk for sun exposure, even if the sky is overcast.
  • Avoid direct sunlight when you're outdoors. Wear a broad-brimmed hat to shield your face, and head for the shade whenever possible. If you can, minimize the amount of time you spend outside between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the sun is strongest.
  • Apply a mild moisturizer, such as Cetaphil® Moisturizing Lotion, to soothe sunburned skin. Avoid products with perfumes or other additives that might further irritate it.
  • Stay cool. During the hottest, muggiest days of summer, seek out air-conditioned environments. If you must be outdoors, sip cool drinks, chew on ice chips, or mist your face with water to avoid the flushing that can trigger rosacea.
  • Schedule outdoor workouts for the early morning or evening, when temperatures are lower and the sun is not as intense. Or head to the gym, where you can exercise in air-conditioned comfort
  • Get more skin care tips sent directly to you. Sign up for the Best Face Forward® email newsletter.

If you experience frequent facial flushing or blushing, particularly on your cheeks, it may indicate a more serious condition. Consult your Dermatologist to find out if MetroGel® 1% is right for you. If you don't have a Dermatologist, the DermFinder® directory can help you locate one near you.

The following adverse experiences have been reported with the topical treatment of metronidazole: burning, skin irritation, dryness, transient redness, metallic taste, tingling or numbness of extremities and nausea.