However, the physicalities of sex — touch, sweat, steamy temperatures — seemed to trump the benefits for me. Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, medical consultant and founder of Adonia Medical Clinic, explains: “Physical exertion and warmth generated during physical activity can elevate skin temperature, which may trigger a rosacea flare-up.” That’s before you add the friction, panting and my partner’s body heat into the mix — no wonder my skin was acting up. It’s not just the sex itself, though. Even our choice of contraception can be a factor. Dr. Craythorne says that high levels of progesterone — a hormone found in many contraceptives — can exacerbate skin sensitivity and redness. Where my rosacea was concerned, it seemed like the odds were stacked against me when it came to enjoying sex.
