Chronic redness can be embarrassing, and an underlying condition like rosacea, acne, seborrhea, or excessive sun exposure likely triggers it. At Pacific Derm in Vancouver, we have several lasers that treat persistent red skin.

What Are the Most Common Causes Of Facial Redness?

Everyone gets red in the face occasionally, but a chronically flushed complexion can lead to social anxiety and lowered self-esteem. A ruddy complexion is most likely caused by an underlying condition that creates dilated blood vessels and/or broken capillaries.

While most of these conditions aren’t dangerous, untreated red spots and patches can result in permanent discolouration, thickening of the skin, dryness, and itchiness. A dermatologist can help you discover the cause of your red skin and create a treatment plan to help manage it.

Rosacea

If you have rosacea, dealing with a red and patchy complexion is a daily challenge due to the dilation of blood vessels in the face. Although dilation happens to everyone, anyone with rosacea undergoes it so frequently that their blood vessels remain permanently enlarged. This results in the persistent appearance of flushed skin.

Eczema

Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, itching, and redness. In some cases, eczema can flare up on the face, contributing to a red or flushed appearance.

Dealing with eczema on your face can be more than just a physical discomfort—it can be a constant source of frustration. A variety of factors can trigger eczema outbreaks—skin, irritants, allergens, stress, and genetic predisposition.

Allergies

Did you know allergies could also be the culprit of red skin? They can trigger an immune response that leads to inflammation and facial redness. Exposure to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or certain foods can prompt your body to release histamines, causing blood vessels in the skin to dilate and cause redness and swelling. Conditions such as allergic dermatitis or hives may intensify facial redness, which often goes hand-in-hand with itching and discomfort.

Sunburn

Another common reason for facial redness is sunburn. Excessive UV exposure can lead to inflammation and dilation of blood vessels. While those with fair skin and lighter hair are generally more susceptible to sunburn because they have less melanin to provide natural protection against UV radiation, it can happen to everyone. Taking certain medications can also cause you to burn more easily after sun exposure.

Available Treatment Options That Can Improve Facial Redness

Topical Medications

Topical medications are commonly used to treat facial redness, particularly for conditions like rosacea. Prescription medications like topical antibiotics, azelaic acid, and ONRELTEA™ gel can be used to treat these conditions to reduce inflammation and redness. It’s essential to carefully follow the prescribed regimen from your dermatologist.

Oral Medications

Oral medications may be recommended for more severe cases of facial redness or conditions like rosacea that are not adequately controlled by topical treatments alone. Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or isotretinoin may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. In some cases, oral antihistamines may also be used to alleviate redness and itching associated with allergic reactions.

These medications work systemically to target the underlying causes of facial redness, providing more comprehensive relief. However, they may carry a risk of side effects and require careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Laser Therapy For Facial Redness

Laser therapy is highly effective at reducing the appearance of redness by selectively destroying blood vessels or reducing inflammation.

At Pacific Derm, we often use the Excel® V Laser to fade broken capillaries and veins. This laser is one of the most advanced options on the market. With several wavelengths, it’s perfect for red face treatment to target blood vessels, skin discolouration, and spider veins.

Because of a unique cooling feature, patients experience less discomfort than with other systems. You may notice a slight stinging as the laser passes over the treatment area, but it’s minimal. After the procedure, you might notice swelling and redness, which should go down after 24 hours.

Depending on the size and severity of the treatment area, you may need to come in a few times. But one or two is enough in most cases, and you should notice an improvement within 2-6 weeks.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes should never be overlooked, as they can help manage facial redness and improve your skin’s overall health. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga may help reduce facial redness associated with stress-induced conditions. Adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration can further support skin health and reduce the severity of facial redness.

Skincare Routine

A tailored skincare routine is essential for managing facial redness and maintaining healthy skin. Mild cleansers and moisturizers formulated for sensitive skin can help soothe irritation and reduce redness without causing further damage.

Avoid harsh exfoliants or abrasive scrubs. This can help prevent irritation and inflammation. All products used should be non-comedogenic and free from parabens, fragrances, silicone, dyes, and alcohol.

Combined with facial redness treatment, a dermatologist can help you develop a skincare routine that addresses your skin concerns and preferences.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Flare-Ups

Sun Protection

One of the most crucial prevention measures for facial redness is adequate sun protection. UV radiation from the sun can exacerbate redness and inflammation. To minimize sun-related facial redness, applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily—even when it’s not a sunny day is essential.

Wearing protective clothing, such as sun hats and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours can protect you from sunburn and further redness.

Avoiding Triggers

Identifying and avoiding triggers exacerbating facial redness is key to managing the issue. Common triggers include certain inflammatory foods, alcohol, hot drinks, extreme temperatures, and harsh skincare products. By keeping a journal to track flare-ups and identifying patterns, you can better understand your triggers and take proactive steps to avoid them.

Proper Skincare

Maintaining a consistent and gentle skincare routine prevents facial redness and maintains healthy skin overall. When in doubt, opt for skincare products specifically formulated for sensitive skin and free of harsh ingredients like fragrances, alcohol, and abrasive exfoliants.

Cleanse the skin with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily and follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin barrier. Incorporating products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide or soothing botanical extracts into your day and nighttime routine can further help calm redness and irritation.

When To See A Dermatologist for Facial Redness

While mild facial redness can often be managed with over-the-counter products and lifestyle changes, persistent or severe redness may require evaluation by a dermatologist. Please seek medical attention if you’re experiencing persistent facial redness accompanied by itching, burning, or flaking.

Any sudden or unexplained changes in facial redness, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms like swelling or blistering, warrant prompt evaluation by a dermatologist.

Our expert dermatologists at Pacific Derm, can provide a comprehensive assessment, diagnose any underlying skin conditions, and recommend holistic treatment options that are right for you. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your confidence regarding this common skin concern.

Facial Redness FAQs

How can I reduce redness on my face?

Reducing redness on the face requires a comprehensive approach. While each person is different, we recommend a combination of lifestyle changes, a tailored skincare routine, and sometimes oral or topical medication.

To alleviate redness:

• Identify and avoid triggers such as harsh skincare products, certain foods, and extreme temperatures.
• Adopt a gentle skincare routine using non-comedogenic products formulated for sensitive skin.
• Consider medical treatments such as topical or oral medications prescribed by a dermatologist, laser therapy, or other interventions based on the underlying cause of the redness.

What is the best facial treatment for redness?

The Excel® V Laser stands out as a highly effective option for facial redness treatment. It’s considered one of the most advanced treatments available, featuring multiple wavelengths perfectly suited for addressing redness. This laser therapy specifically targets visible blood vessels, skin discoloration, and spider veins, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking relief from facial redness.

How long does facial redness last?

The duration of facial redness varies depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. Temporary redness from factors like sunburn or allergic reactions may subside within a few days to a week with proper treatment and skin care measures. However, chronic conditions like rosacea, acne, or inflammatory skin disorders may cause persistent or recurrent facial redness that can last for weeks, months, or even years without proper management.

Effective treatment and lifestyle modifications can help reduce the severity and duration of facial redness associated with chronic conditions. Still, long-term management may be necessary to prevent flare-ups and maintain skin health. It’s essential to consult with a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan if you experience persistent facial redness.