Having sensitive skin, or suffering from conditions such as rosacea or dermatitis, can lead to redness on the face. And although it is often a purely cosmetic problem, in some cases this redness can reduce the quality of life of those who suffer from it, and be accompanied by inflammation and itching.
Understanding the causes of facial redness will enable you to know how to treat and prevent it, resulting in healthier, more even-toned skin.
Why does facial redness occur?
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 the blood vessels are closest to the skin, such as the cheeks, forehead, chin, or nose.
Causes of skin redness
Facial redness can be caused by a variety of factors, from underlying medical conditions to external influences or bad habits.
Here are some of the most common causes:
- Rosacea. This medical condition causes the blood vessels in the skin to dilate, resulting in redness, inflammation, and sometimes pustules.
- Dermatitis. This occurs when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen, such as certain cosmetics, soaps, or chemicals, causing redness, inflammation, and itching.
- Seborrheic dermatitis. This causes redness of the skin accompanied by flaking in areas such as the nose, eyebrows, and T-zone, where the sebaceous glands are most active.
- Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is more prone to redness, as the nerve endings in this type of skin are hypersensitive.
- Sun exposure. Sun damage is another major cause of facial redness. This occurs when the skin is burned or irritated by prolonged exposure to UV rays without adequate protection.
- Extreme weather. In very cold, windy, or rapidly changing temperature conditions, blood vessels can dilate and increase external redness.
- Stress and anxiety. Suffering from stress, anxiety, or embarrassment can trigger a response from the nervous system that dilates the 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 that occur 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 the body’s response to internal or external factors. Identifying the specific cause is crucial to determining 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 mild, skin-friendly surfactants. It is best to choose hypoallergenic formulas that have been tested on sensitive skin. When it comes to moisturizers, products with ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are a better option, as they help to 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 may be necessary to reduce redness. And if the redness persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.