How to Reduce Redness on Face?

Facial redness is a condition where the skin of the face appears flushed or red. Usually, bacterial and fungal infections are the reasons behind this condition, but in some cases, chronic skin conditions like eczema can be responsible as well. Apart from that, some of the common causes of facial redness are rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, allergic reactions, psoriasis, etc. Facial redness is typically a temporary condition, and it is not threatening. However, when it persists or recurs, it is crucial to get it checked to avoid the development of any serious issues. 

Identifying Triggers

Certain environmental conditions can often exacerbate facial redness. Some examples are –

• Air pollution

• Sunlight (UV radiation exposure)

• Humidity or dry wind

• Use of harsh makeup products

Some specific foods and drinks can also trigger facial rashes. Examples include –

• Spicy and sugary foods

• Alcohol, particularly red wine

• Processed meats

• Dairy products

Sometimes, lifestyle habits can also aggravate the facial rash. These include –

• Smoking

• Excessive stress

• Rigorous exercise

Skincare Routine Adjustments

Knowing the skin type is necessary before deciding on a skincare regime to combat facial redness. Generally, facial skin is categorised as dry, oily, sensitive, or having a combination or normal texture. Depending on the skin type, the products vary and can be used to manage conditions like acne, ageing, hyperpigmentation, etc. The efficacy of the product largely depends on its ingredients. For example, hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin, whereas vitamin C contributes largely to skin brightening.

So, here are some examples of skincare products for each skin type –

• Dry Skin: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Cocokind Rosewater Facial Toner, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen.

• Oily Skin: Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner, CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion, Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit 100% Hydrogel Mask.

• Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Moisturising cream, Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Himalaya Purifying Neem Face Wash, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser Water Gel.

• Combination Skin: Laurel Skin Deep Clarity Oil Cleanser, Pixi Glow Tonic, Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Redness Relief Serum, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream.

• Normal Skin: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen.

Apart from allergic substances, some other potentially toxic chemicals must not be used under any condition. These are –
Methyl and propyl parabens

• Phthalates

• Aluminium

• Formaldehyde

• Oxybenzone

• PEGs (polyethylene glycols)

Besides the products, one needs to inculcate some healthy skincare habits. These are –

• Cleansing twice a day

• Putting serums in the morning

• Moisturising as and when needed

• Applying sunscreen while going outdoors

Medical Treatments

In some cases, the facial redness becomes so persistent that simple skincare is insufficient to resolve it. Then comes the need to bring over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Some commonly used creams and gels are – 

• Calamine Lotion

• Aloe Vera Gel

• Hydrocortisone Cream

• Green tea extract creams or gels

• Niacinamide-based creams like CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

If the condition is chronic and OTC medications fail, then comes the need to consult a healthcare provider. After examining the patient, the dermatologist prescribes the medication needed. Some common ones are – 

• Metronidazole (topical)

• Clindamycin (topical)

• Isotretinoin (oral)

• Antibiotics like doxycycline, tetracycline (oral)

Professional dermatological treatments are fetched when the condition is severe, like in the case of rosacea, chronic acne, etc. In such cases, the patient has to undergo extensive treatment procedures, which can be time-consuming and painful. The options here are –

• Cryotherapy

• Application of topical steroid

• Pulse Dye Laser (PDL)

• Chemical Peels

• Sclerotherapy

Natural Remedies

Sometimes, the facial rashes can also be reduced with natural remedies. But, this is only possible if the dermatological condition is temporary and not so severe. Some simple and gentle remedies that can be practised at home are – 

• Applying rosewater

• Using coconut oil

• Applying fresh aloe vera gel extracted from the plant

• Using green tea extracts

• Applying raw honey on the face for 10 to 15 minutes

• Applying chilled cucumber slices or juice directly

Various types of facials and masks are available in the market. If the right product is selected based on the skin type, it not only gives a soothing effect but nourishes the skin. The benefits of using these are – 

• Helps in exfoliation

• Increases hydration

• Helps in deep cleansing

• Unclogs the pores

• Relieves stress

• Enhances skin health

• Improves skin tone

Dietary and Hydration Tips

Facial rashes are often caused due to inadequate water intake and poor dietary habits. Irrespective of the skincare products and topical treatments, improper hydration will affect the skin and its texture. So, drinking the required water is needed to maintain healthy skin. Proper hydration flushes out toxins from the body and provides a clear and supple skin.

Besides hydration, dietary habits can also affect the skin's natural appearance. So, for clear and glowing skin, one must include the following food items in his/her diet –

• Avocados

• Fatty fish

• Carrots

• Walnuts

• Soybeans

• Dark Chocolate

Lifestyle Changes

Poor facial skin condition is often triggered by lifestyle factors like chronic and excessive stress. While the demands of modern life often lead to excessive strain, it is possible to manage it through a few changes like –

• Meditation

• Deep breathing

• Regular exercise

• Better time management

• Indulging in hobbies

Besides stress, sleep deprivation also leads to damaged skin. It impairs the function of the skin barrier, resulting in increased redness, inflammation, rashes, etc. During sleep, the body repairs the damages naturally, and inadequate sleep disrupts this process. Therefore, to maintain healthy skin, sufficient sleep is necessary.

When to See a Dermatologist?

Facial redness can happen for many reasons. But when is a professional intervention needed? Here are some signs that call for a consultation with a healthcare provider –

• If the redness is persistent

• Itchiness is increasing

• The rash is becoming severe

• Skin texture is changing drastically

How to Prepare For a Dermatologist Appointment?

To prepare for an appointment with a dermatologist, one needs to keep the following in mind –

• Keeping track of the symptoms, their duration, triggers, etc.

• Listing the medications and skin care products used recently

• Listing medical history and previous treatments

• Noting down the questions and concerns

Understanding Rosacea

Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that largely affects the facial skin. The cheeks, nose, and forehead are mostly affected by this condition. 

Rosacea can be genetic or triggered by environmental factors. Additionally, eating spicy foods and lingering sun exposure or excessive and chronic stress can further worsen this condition.

Rosacea can be quite painful as persistent flushing, acne-like bumps, and severe redness accompany it. A dermatologist consultation is absolutely necessary for a person affected by rosacea. 

How to Manage Rosacea?

Changing the lifestyle, adapting appropriate topical treatment, and avoiding the known causes that trigger the condition can help manage it. However, patience is also needed as this condition takes time to cure.

Conclusion

Facial redness is a common yet harmless skin condition that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. Typically, this is a temporary skin condition that resolves itself, but in cases where it is persistent or chronic, it must not be neglected. And, if it is rosacea, it becomes a primary concern, needing immediate healthcare supervision. Facial redness is easily manageable through home remedies, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, but prescribed medicines are necessary for severe cases. However, individuals should focus on prevention rather than cure. With the right diet and proper hydration, they can easily improve the quality of their skin and prevent developing redness. Also, in terms of lifestyle changes, they can focus on reducing stress and getting enough sleep to ensure their skin remains healthy and devoid of any undue conditions that disrupt their life.
 

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