We’ve all dealt with a little redness here and there, but what happens when your face is constantly flushed, red in patches, or you’re just dealing with unwanted redness too frequently? This redness can be embarrassing and even lead to self-esteem issues. While any skin condition should be evaluated in-person by your dermatologist, there are some resources we can share to help you start to understand what might be causing your redness. Let’s look at some potential causes of redness.
There are many things that can cause underlying redness.
- Rosacea: One of the primary causes of persistent facial redness is rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition can lead to redness, visible blood vessels, and even acne-like breakouts on the face. While the exact causes of the condition are unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Rosacea may also be triggered by certain foods, drinks, and lifestyle factors, including stress, alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods. Rosacea can present differently in different people. The most common symptom is redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin, but some people may also experience bumps, pimples, or thickened skin. In severe cases, rosacea can even cause eye problems. To learn more about rosacea read our blog entitled, “What to Know if You’ve Been Diagnosed with Rosacea.”
- Sunburn: Overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause your skin to become red and irritated, often termed a “sunburn.” Always protect your skin by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ and wearing protective clothing like hats and sunglasses while spending time outdoors.
- Sensitivity to Skin Care Products: Some skincare products contain harsh ingredients that can trigger irritation and redness, especially if you have sensitive skin. Be mindful of the ingredients in your products and opt for gentle, hypoallergenic options.
- Temperature Extremes: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can cause facial redness. According to the AAD, abrupt temperature changes can cause your blood vessels to dilate faster than normal, leading to redness.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to food, medications, or environmental allergens can manifest as facial redness. If you notice a correlation between redness and specific foods, medications, etc. make note of it to talk to your doctor about it the next time you see them.
- Skin Infections: Bacterial or fungal skin infections can cause localized redness on the face. If you suspect an infection, consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
- Skin Conditions like Eczema and Psoriasis: Chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can cause red, inflamed patches on the face. Proper management and skincare routines are essential for controlling these conditions.
- Stress and Emotional Factors: Stress and strong emotions can trigger a release of hormones that dilate blood vessels and lead to facial redness. Practicing stress management techniques can help mitigate this effect.
- Alcohol and Spicy Foods: Similarly to an allergic reaction, consuming moderate or extreme amounts of alcohol or spicy foods can cause temporary facial flushing and redness.
- Medications: Some medications, such as blood pressure medications, can lead to facial redness as a side effect. If you suspect your medication is causing this, consult your healthcare provider for possible alternatives.
Understanding the various factors that can contribute to facial redness is the first step in managing and addressing the issue. Remember that maintaining a healthy skincare routine, protecting your skin from environmental factors, and being mindful of potential triggers can go a long way in keeping your complexion clear and radiant. If you find that redness on your face persists or worsens, consult your dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Our team is here to help you feel comfortable and confident in your skin!
The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Sources for the above information include The American Academy of Dermatology. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office or make an appointment with a medical professional. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd in Augusta, Ga. Our office can be reached at 706-691-7079.
