Having sensitive skin, or suffering from conditions such as rosacea or dermatitis, can lead to the appearance of redness on the face. And although it is often merely an aesthetic problem, sometimes this redness can reduce the quality of life of those who suffer from it, and be accompanied by inflammation and itching.
Knowing the causes of redness on the face will allow you to know how to treat and prevent it, so you can have healthier and more even skin.
Why does redness appear on the face?
In general, the skin blushes when the blood vessels beneath it dilate or widen, filling with more blood and causing the skin to take on this color.
Therefore, skin redness, which can be temporary or persistent, usually forms in areas where blood vessels are closer to the skin, such as the cheeks, forehead, chin, or nose.
Causes of skin redness
Facial redness can be the result of various factors; from underlying medical conditions to external influences or bad habits.
Here are some of the most common causes:
- Rosacea. This medical condition causes dilation of the blood vessels in the skin, resulting in redness, inflammation, and sometimes pustules.
- Dermatitis. It occurs when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen, such as certain cosmetics, soaps, or chemicals, causing redness, inflammation, and itching.
- Seborrheic dermatitis. Causes redness of the skin accompanied by flaking in areas like the nose, eyebrows, and T-zone, where the sebaceous glands are more active.
- Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is more prone to redness because the nerve endings in this type of skin are hypersensitive.
- Sun exposure. Sun damage is another main cause of facial redness. It happens when the skin burns or becomes irritated due to prolonged exposure to UV rays without adequate protection.
- Extreme weather. In conditions of intense cold, wind, or sudden temperature changes, blood vessels can dilate and increase external redness.
- Stress and anxiety. Experiencing stress, anxiety, or embarrassment can trigger a nervous system response that dilates blood vessels in the face, resulting in temporary redness.
- Exfoliants and aggressive treatments. Excessive use of chemical or physical exfoliants, or aggressive facial treatments, can irritate the skin and cause redness.
- Skin allergies: Contact with allergens, such as certain ingredients in cosmetics, pollen, or even metals, can cause redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy, menopause, or the menstrual cycle, can affect blood circulation and skin sensitivity.
Treatments for facial redness
As we have seen, facial redness can be a symptom of various conditions or body responses to internal or external factors. Identifying the specific cause is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment.
Following a facial routine that suits your skin type and avoiding products that cause irritation can help combat this problem.
It is recommended to use facial cleansers with gentle, skin-friendly surfactants. It is better to choose hypoallergenic formulas tested on sensitive skin. Regarding moisturizers, products with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are a better option, as they help soothe irritated skin.
For example, TOSKANI ampoules for sensitive skin are a solution that rehydrates and revitalizes the skin’s natural barrier, reducing sensitivity in sensitive skin. These ampoules also provide an antioxidant effect and help improve the texture and elasticity of skin prone to redness.
TOSKANI Glycomax is a glycolic acid solution ideal for treating rosacea, photoaging, and stretch marks, as it provides a superficial peeling effect. In severe or persistent cases, laser treatments to reduce redness may be necessary. And if redness persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.