3 Common Triggers for Facial Redness

Facial redness can be frustrating and even embarrassing at times. While flushed skin isn’t always something to be worried about, chronic facial redness can have multiple causes such as rosacea and dermatitis. It’s important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to determine if you have one of these skin disorders so you can work together to find a treatment that works for you.

While there’s no “one size fits all” remedy to keep facial redness at bay, there are a few things you can avoid to help keep your skin from becoming irritated. Here are a few of the most common triggers for facial redness and what you can do to help calm your skin.

Overdoing It With Skin Care Products

If you’re experiencing facial redness, it’s a good idea to consult your dermatologist before changing your skincare routine. While cleansers and moisturizers can help to hydrate your skin and keep it free from dirt and excess oil, overuse of new products can cause your skin to have a bad reaction. It is advisable to slowly introduce new skincare products into your daily routine. Begin by using one new product per week, slowly working your way up to a full routine. Gentle cleansers that hydrate your skin, healthy serums, and calming moisturizers are all good products to use. It is important to remember to keep your routine simple to avoid overwhelming your skin.

Over-Exfoliating

Many seek out exfoliation to rid their faces and bodies of old, dead skin cells and as an anti-aging technique. However, over-exfoliating, especially with rough facial scrubs made with sugar or walnut, is not good for your skin. The same is true for chemical peels, and using them too often could damage your skin. Both can leave your skin feeling irritated or inflamed and can cause redness rather than the smooth results you were seeking. 

Not Wearing Enough Sunscreen

You don’t need a full sunburn to experience skin irritation due to the sun. The powerful UV rays produced by the sun can be dangerous for your skin if you are not protected. This is why it is important to keep your skin safe using a combination of sunscreen, clothing, shade and responsible choices. This means seeking shade on sunny days, wearing a hat with a brim, and wearing sunscreen daily to protect your skin. For those with eczema or rosacea, too much sun exposure can trigger these skin disorders. Consider wearing makeup that comes with SPF protection or adding protection to your daily routine.

Many patients have triggers for facial redness or skin irritation such as exercise, alcohol, spicy food, chocolate and others. If you’re concerned about your facial redness and seeking ways to calm your skin, we recommend consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist you can trust. For more information about facial redness, contact the skin-care experts at Mahoney Dermatology today!