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How to treat skin redness. 21 Common Causes of Skin Redness: Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention

What are the most frequent causes of skin redness. How can you identify different types of skin redness. What are effective treatments for various forms of skin redness. When should you seek medical attention for red skin.

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Understanding Skin Redness: An Overview of Common Causes

Skin redness is a common condition that can result from various factors, ranging from minor irritations to serious medical issues. It occurs when blood rushes to the skin’s surface, often as a response to fight off irritants or promote healing. While not always a cause for concern, persistent or severe skin redness may indicate an underlying problem that requires attention.

Identifying the root cause of skin redness is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and preventing future occurrences. This comprehensive guide explores 21 common causes of skin redness, their symptoms, and potential treatments.

Diaper Rash: Recognizing and Treating Infant Skin Irritation

Diaper rash is a common form of skin irritation that affects babies and young children. It typically appears as red, inflamed skin in areas that come into contact with a diaper.

Key Characteristics of Diaper Rash:

  • Red, wet, and irritated skin in the diaper area
  • Warm to the touch
  • May cause discomfort or fussiness in infants

How can parents effectively treat and prevent diaper rash? The most important steps include:

  1. Changing diapers frequently to keep the area dry
  2. Gently cleaning the area with warm water and a soft cloth
  3. Applying a protective barrier cream or ointment
  4. Allowing the baby’s skin to air out when possible

In most cases, diaper rash clears up within a few days with proper care. However, if the rash persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult a pediatrician.

First-Degree Burns: Identifying and Treating Minor Skin Burns

First-degree burns are the mildest form of burn injury, affecting only the outermost layer of skin (epidermis). These burns are common and can often be treated at home.

Symptoms of First-Degree Burns:

  • Painful, dry, red area that turns white when pressed
  • Skin may peel after a few days
  • No blistering

What’s the best way to treat a first-degree burn? Follow these steps:

  1. Cool the burn under cold running water for at least 10 minutes
  2. Apply a moisturizing lotion or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin
  3. Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage
  4. Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed

First-degree burns typically heal within 7-10 days without scarring. If the burn covers a large area or is on a sensitive part of the body, seek medical attention.

Allergic Eczema: Understanding and Managing Skin Allergies

Allergic eczema, also known as allergic contact dermatitis, is a skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen. This condition can cause significant discomfort and may be chronic in some individuals.

Characteristic Features of Allergic Eczema:

  • Itchy, red, scaly, or raw skin
  • Blisters that may weep, ooze, or become crusty
  • Often found on hands and forearms
  • May resemble a burn

How can one effectively manage allergic eczema? Consider these strategies:

  1. Identify and avoid known allergens
  2. Use hypoallergenic skincare products
  3. Apply cool compresses to soothe irritated skin
  4. Use prescribed topical corticosteroids or antihistamines as directed
  5. Moisturize regularly to maintain skin barrier function

For persistent or severe cases of allergic eczema, consult a dermatologist for specialized treatment options, which may include phototherapy or immunosuppressant medications.

Rosacea: Recognizing and Treating Chronic Facial Redness

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by facial redness and, sometimes, small, red, pus-filled bumps. It typically affects middle-aged and older adults with fair skin.

Key Symptoms of Rosacea:

  • Facial flushing and persistent redness
  • Visible blood vessels on the face
  • Swollen, red bumps that may resemble acne
  • Skin dryness and sensitivity
  • Eye irritation in some cases

What are effective ways to manage rosacea? Consider these approaches:

  1. Identify and avoid triggers (e.g., spicy foods, alcohol, sun exposure)
  2. Use gentle, non-irritating skincare products
  3. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
  4. Use prescribed topical medications (e.g., metronidazole, azelaic acid)
  5. Consider oral antibiotics for more severe cases

While there’s no cure for rosacea, proper management can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Regular follow-ups with a dermatologist are essential for optimal control of the condition.

Burns: Understanding Different Types and Severity Levels

Burns are injuries to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, radiation, electricity, chemicals, or friction. They are classified into three degrees based on their severity and depth.

Classification of Burns:

  • First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin
  • Second-degree burns: Damage extends to the second layer of skin
  • Third-degree burns: Destroy both layers of skin and underlying tissues

How should different types of burns be treated? Here’s a general guide:

  1. First-degree burns: Cool with water, apply aloe vera or antibiotic ointment
  2. Second-degree burns: Rinse with cool water, cover with sterile gauze, seek medical attention
  3. Third-degree burns: Call emergency services immediately, do not remove clothing stuck to the burn

It’s crucial to note that second and third-degree burns require professional medical care. Proper treatment can prevent complications and promote optimal healing.

Contact Dermatitis: Identifying and Managing Skin Reactions to Irritants

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. It can be either irritant contact dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis.

Common Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis:

  • Red, itchy, or burning skin
  • Swelling or blistering in affected areas
  • Dry, cracked, or scaly skin
  • Clear boundaries where skin contacted the irritant

What steps can be taken to treat and prevent contact dermatitis?

  1. Identify and avoid the irritant or allergen
  2. Wash the affected area thoroughly with mild soap and water
  3. Apply cool compresses to soothe the skin
  4. Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream for mild cases
  5. Consult a dermatologist for severe or persistent cases

Prevention is key in managing contact dermatitis. If you’re unsure about the cause, a dermatologist can perform patch testing to identify specific allergens.

Chemical Burns: Immediate Care and Long-Term Management

Chemical burns occur when skin or eyes come into contact with irritants such as strong acids or bases. The severity depends on the chemical’s concentration, duration of contact, and method of exposure.

Key Steps in Chemical Burn First Aid:

  • Remove contaminated clothing and jewelry
  • Rinse the affected area with cool, running water for at least 20 minutes
  • Do not attempt to neutralize the chemical unless directed by a professional
  • Seek immediate medical attention for severe burns or eye injuries

How should chemical burns be managed in the long term? Consider these approaches:

  1. Follow medical advice for wound care and dressing changes
  2. Use prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics if necessary
  3. Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
  4. Consider physical therapy or occupational therapy for burns affecting mobility
  5. Protect healed skin from sun exposure to prevent discoloration

Chemical burns can have serious long-term consequences. Proper immediate care and ongoing management are crucial for optimal recovery and minimizing potential complications.

Drug Allergies: Recognizing and Responding to Adverse Reactions

Drug allergies occur when the immune system reacts abnormally to a medication. These reactions can range from mild to life-threatening and may develop immediately or days after starting a new medication.

Common Symptoms of Drug Allergies:

  • Skin rash or hives
  • Itching
  • Fever
  • Swelling, especially of the face or throat
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing

How should one respond to a suspected drug allergy?

  1. Stop taking the medication immediately
  2. Contact a healthcare provider or seek emergency care for severe symptoms
  3. Document the reaction and the suspected medication
  4. Wear a medical alert bracelet if diagnosed with a severe drug allergy
  5. Inform all healthcare providers about known drug allergies

It’s important to distinguish between true drug allergies and side effects. An allergist can perform tests to confirm a drug allergy and provide guidance on alternative medications.

Cellulitis: Understanding and Treating Bacterial Skin Infections

Cellulitis is a potentially serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of skin and subcutaneous tissues. It occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a cut or insect bite.

Key Symptoms of Cellulitis:

  • Red, swollen, and painful skin
  • Skin feels warm to the touch
  • Fever and chills
  • Skin may appear dimpled or have red spots
  • Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area

What is the recommended treatment approach for cellulitis?

  1. Seek prompt medical attention for diagnosis
  2. Take prescribed oral antibiotics as directed
  3. Elevate the affected area to reduce swelling
  4. Apply cool compresses to relieve pain and inflammation
  5. Monitor the infection closely and report any worsening symptoms

Cellulitis can spread rapidly and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for effective management and prevention of recurrence.

Understanding the various causes of skin redness is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While some cases can be managed at home, others require professional medical attention. Always consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about the cause of your skin redness or if symptoms persist or worsen. By staying informed and proactive, you can effectively manage skin redness and maintain overall skin health.

Skin Redness: Causes, Photos, and Treatments

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Many things can cause red skin, from a simple sunburn to a potentially serious infection. Getting a proper diagnosis of the underlying cause is important for finding the most effective treatment.

Why does my skin look red?

From a sunburn to an allergic reaction, there are many things that can cause your skin to become red or irritated. It may be because extra blood rushes to the skin’s surface to fight off irritants and encourage healing. Your skin can also become red from exertion, such as after a heart-pounding exercise session.

It’s not always a reason for concern, but skin redness can be irritating and uncomfortable. It might also be accompanied by other symptoms. Figuring out its underlying cause can help you treat your skin and keep it from happening again.

Many different conditions can skin redness. Here are 21 possible causes.

Warning: Graphic images ahead.

Diaper rash

  • Rash located on areas that have contact with a diaper
  • Skin looks red, wet, and irritated
  • Warm to the touch

Read full article on diaper rash.


First-degree burn

  • The mildest form of burn injury, it affects only the first layer of the skin.
  • Painful, dry, red area turns white with pressure.
  • Skin may peel, but ther is no blistering.
  • Pain and redness will subside after a few days.

Read full article on first-degree burns.


Allergic eczema

  • May resemble a burn
  • Often found on hands and forearms
  • Skin is itchy, red, scaly, or raw
  • Blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty

Read full article on allergic eczema.


Rosacea

  • Chronic skin disease that goes through cycles of fading and relapse
  • Relapses may be triggered by spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, sunlight, stress, and the intestinal bacteria Helicobacter pylori
  • There are four subtypes of rosacea encompassing a wide variety of symptoms
  • Common symptoms include facial flushing, raised, red bumps, facial redness, skin dryness, and skin sensitivity

Read full article on rosacea.


Burns

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

  • Burn severity is classified by both depth and size
  • First-degree burns: minor swelling and dry, red, tender skin that turns white when pressure is applied
  • Second-degree burns: very painful, clear, weeping blisters and skin that appears red or has variable, patchy coloration
  • Third-degree burns: white or dark brown/tan in color, with leathery appearance and low or no sensitivity to touch

Read full article on burns.


Contact dermatitis

  • Appears hours to days after contact with an allergen
  • Rash has visible borders and appears where your skin touched the irritating substance
  • Skin is itchy, red, scaly, or raw
  • Blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty

Read full article on contact dermatitis.


Chemical burn

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

  • This occurs when your skin, mucous membranes, or eyes come into contact with a chemical irritant, such as a strong acid or a base.
  • The concentration of the chemical, duration of contact, and method of contact will determine severity of symptoms and urgency of treatment.
  • First aid treatments for chemical burns include removing the chemical that caused the burn (including removing any clothing or jewelry that has touched the chemical) and rinsing the skin under lukewarm, slow, running water for 10 to 20 minutes (and at least 20 minutes for chemical eye injuries).

Read full article on chemical burns.


Drug allergy

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

  • Mild, itchy, red rash may occur days to weeks after taking a drug
  • Severe drug allergies can be life-threatening and symptoms include hives, racing heart, swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing
  • Other symptoms include fever, stomach upset, and tiny purple or red dots on the skin

Read full article on drug allergies.


Cellulitis

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

  • Caused by bacteria or fungi entering through a crack or cut in the skin
  • Red, painful, swollen skin with or without oozing that spreads quickly
  • Hot and tender to the touch
  • Fever, chills, and red streaking from the rash might be a sign of serious infection requiring medical attention

Read full article on cellulitis.


Scarlet fever

  • Occurs at the same time as or right after a strep throat infection
  • Red skin rash all over the body (but not the hands and feet)
  • Rash is made up of tiny bumps that make it feel like “sandpaper”
  • Bright red tongue

Read full article on scarlet fever.


Angioedema

  • This is a form of severe swelling beneath the skin’s surface.
  • It may be accompanied by hives and itching.
  • It’s caused by an allergic reaction to an allergen like food or medication.
  • Additional symptoms may include stomach cramping and discolored patches or rash on the hands, arms, and feet.

Read full article on angioedema.


Thrombophlebitis

  • This inflammation of a superficial vein is caused by a blood clot.
  • It typically occurs in the legs.
  • Symptoms include tenderness, warmth, redness, and visible engorgement along the vein.

Read full article on thrombophlebitis.


Bone infection

  • A bone infection, also called osteomyelitis, occurs when bacteria or fungi invade a bone.
  • Bones may get infected by migration of a bacteria or fungus infecting surrounding tissues or the blood stream, or by penetrating injury or surgery that exposes the bone.
  • Symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, stiffness, and warmth in the infected body part.
  • Fever and chills may also occur.

Read full article on bone infection.


Osteosarcoma

  • This bone cancer typically develops in the shinbone (tibia) near the knee, the thighbone (femur) near the knee, or the upper arm bone (humerus) near the shoulder.
  • It’s the most common type of bone cancer in children.
  • Common signs include bone pain (in motion, at rest, or when lifting objects), bone fractures, swelling, redness, and limping.

Read full article on osteosarcoma.


Sunburn

  • Superficial burn on the outermost layer of skin
  • Redness, pain, and swelling
  • Dry, peeling skin
  • More severe, blistering burns may occur after extended periods of sun exposure

Read full article on sunburns.


Skin infection

  • A skin infection is caused by a wide variety of infectious agents including bacteria, fungi, viruses. and parasites.
  • Common symptoms include redness of the skin, tenderness, itching, and a rash.
  • See a doctor if you have fever, chills, pus-filled blisters, skin breakdown, severe pain, or a skin infection that doesn’t improve or gets progressively worse.

Read full article on skin infections.


Bites and stings

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

  • Redness or swelling at the site of the bite or sting
  • Itching and soreness at the site of the bite
  • Pain in the affected area or in the muscles
  • Heat around the bite or sting

Read full article on bites and stings.


Heat rash

  • This irritating skin rash occurs due to a combination of heat, sweat, and friction.
  • It’s caused by blockage of the sweat glands.
  • Heat rash develops on body parts that rub together, such as between the inner thighs or under the arms.
  • Small clear or white bumps filled with fluid appear on the surface of the skin.
  • Itchy, hot or prickly red bumps on the skin are another symptom.

Read full article on heat rash.


Psoriasis

  • Scaly, silvery, sharply defined skin patches
  • Commonly located on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back
  • May be itchy or asymptomatic

Read full article on psoriasis.


Ringworm

  • Circular-shaped scaly rashes with raised border
  • Skin in the middle of the ring appears clear and healthy, and the edges of the ring may spread outward
  • Itchy

Read full article on ringworm.


Shingles

  • Very painful rash that may burn, tingle, or itch, even if there are no blisters present
  • Rash comprising clusters of fluid-filled blisters that break easily and weep fluid
  • Rash emerges in a linear stripe pattern that appears most commonly on the torso, but may occur on other parts of the body, including the face
  • Rash may be accompanied by low fever, chills, headache, or fatigue

Read full article on shingles.

The main symptom associated with skin redness is varying colors of redness on the skin. The redness can occur on different portions of the body. Here are some examples of symptoms that you may have along with red skin:

  • blistering
  • bumps
  • burning
  • flushing
  • hives
  • itching
  • rash
  • warmth in your skin
  • sores
  • swelling

Causes of skin redness vary drastically and can include irritants, the sun, and insect bites. Examples of skin conditions associated with skin redness include:

  • bites
  • cellulitis
  • contact dermatitis
  • diaper rash
  • eczema
  • allergic eczema
  • heat rash
  • medication allergy
  • psoriasis
  • ringworm
  • rosacea
  • scarlet fever
  • shingles
  • skin burns
  • skin infections
  • sunburns
  • lymph node inflammation
  • first-degree burns
  • chemical burns
  • angioedema
  • thromboplebitis
  • bone infection
  • osteosarcoma

Skin redness can be a temporary, or acute, condition. It can also be a chronic condition that constantly reappears.

You should get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms associated with skin redness:

  • a burn that’s twice the size of your palm
  • difficulty breathing
  • extreme pain
  • loss of consciousness
  • redness near or on your eyes that is affecting your vision

You should also get medical attention if you have an animal bite, even if you’ve had a tetanus shot.

See a healthcare provider or dermatologist for other symptoms that aren’t considered a medical emergency. If you don’t already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Your healthcare provider will examine your skin redness. If your symptoms come and go, they’ll listen to your description of them. They’ll ask you a few questions. These could include:

  • What activities were you engaging in before you noticed the skin redness?
  • Are you taking any new medications or using any new skin care or cleaning products?
  • Do you have a family history of any skin conditions?
  • Have you experienced this skin redness before?
  • Were you around others who may have a similar rash?

These and other questions can help your healthcare provider figure out what may have caused your skin redness.

Additional testing may include taking a skin sample or biopsy of the affected area, or allergy testing to determine if your skin reacts to certain irritants.

Ask your healthcare provider if your skin condition may be contagious and what steps you can take to prevent its spread. This can ensure that you don’t pass on the skin redness to someone else.

Treatments for skin redness depend on what’s causing it. Examples can include avoiding the irritant or allergen that caused your skin redness in the first place.

Other treatments for skin redness include:

  • cleansing the affected area with soap and water
  • taking medications like antihistamines to minimize irritation
  • applying topical skin care treatments like calamine lotion to reduce skin redness

Keeping the affected area clean and dry can usually help reduce skin redness. If an infection is the cause of your skin redness, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the infection’s symptoms.

13 Ways to Reduce Facial Redness, According to Dermatologists

By

Kristin Howard

Kristin Howard

Kristin Howard is a freelance writer and content creator.  She has contributed skincare and wellness articles for Reader’s Digest, Hello Giggles, and The Pretty Pimple. 

Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines

and

Anneke Knot

Anneke Knot

Anneke Knot is a freelance writer and content creator specializing in beauty and fashion. Previously, she was on staff at Real Simple and Health magazines.

Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines

Updated on 02/14/23 12:01PM

Medically reviewed by

Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD

Medically reviewed by
Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD

Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologic surgeon and lecturer both in the U.S. and in the global arena.

ABOUT BYRDIE’S BEAUTY & WELLNESS BOARD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

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Red, flushed skin can be attributed to a number of things, whether it’s warm weather, an intense workout, or simply feeling excited or embarrassed. Sometimes redness can occur because of a skin condition, such as rosacea, or issues like endocrine disorders that we can’t easily see. While some causes of redness are a bit easier to treat than others, and perhaps only require a pat-down with cool water or a calming mask, others require intensive treatments with the help of a skincare pro. Whatever the case, calming red, flushed skin is easier once you identify the cause.

Meet the Expert

  • Anna Guanche, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures. She is the founder of Bella Skin Institute in Calabasas, California.
  • Gary Goldenberg, MD, is a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist at Goldenberg Dermatology. He is also an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Keep reading to learn more about what you can do to calm your skin when redness occurs.

01
of 13

Apply a Cool Compress

If your red or flushed skin isn’t due to an underlying medical condition, you can treat it by applying a cool compress to the affected area. In most cases, the skin becomes flushed as a result of the blood vessels widening, which then allows for more blood to flow through. This is why some people experience redness during exercise, when they drink alcohol, or if they become embarrassed—which we’ll get to in a minute.

To calm flushed skin, place a clean washcloth in a plastic bag filled with ice cubes and leave it in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Then, remove the cloth and gently apply it to the skin for about 20 minutes.

02
of 13

Color-Correct With Visine

For years, Visine has promised to “get the red out” of our eyes, and as it turns out, that same color-correcting magic can work on skin. Like ice or cold water, Visine constricts blood vessels to reduce redness by restricting blood flow to the area. Many people already know that a few drops of Visine on an inflamed pimple can offer temporary relief from redness, and Guanche recommends implementing this practice to any affected areas of the skin by combining “a little Visine mixed with moisturizer.

03
of 13

Wear a Soothing Mask

If you don’t need to constrict your blood vessels but seek to calm red skin that’s caused by dryness or inflammation, natural face masks and sheet masks make for great at-home treatments when they contain the right ingredients. Rosewater is known for reducing redness and calming irritated skin. Plus, it’s naturally packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which will leave your skin looking and smelling fantastic in mere minutes.

We like Dr. Jart’s Soothing Hydra Solution Deep Hydration Sheet Mask ($15) for when you need to keep your skin hydrated. It contains soothing aloe vera to help avoid any additional irritation.

If you’re feeling crafty, try a DIY face mask. Research avocado or oatmeal face mask recipes to calm flushed skin.

04
of 13

Regularly Moisturize

Moisturizing should already be a part of your skincare routine, but if you experience chronic redness, it may be time to boost the frequency. Look for soothing ingredients in your moisturizers like aloe, spring water, or oatmeal—we love the Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream ($36). If you still can’t shake the dryness, try incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum into your routine. The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($10) feels super silky and works on all skin types.

05
of 13

Look Into Lasers

Laser technology has been used by dermatologists for years to treat a number of skincare concerns, from reducing acne scarring, diminishing hyperpigmentation, and even lifting sagging skin without requiring patients to go under the knife. When it comes to relieving redness, there’s a laser therapy treatment for that, too. “V-Beam Laser is a non-ablative laser that produces an intense but gentle burst of light that selectively destroys the blood vessels of vascular lesions without damaging the surrounding skin and tissue,” Guanche explains. “This laser helps with flushing as well.”

The KTP laser is another option, which Goldenberg says literally cauterizes the dilated vessels that cause redness in the first place. “Other lasers, such as laser genesis, help patients with rosacea and acne combination by destroying the bacteria that causes acne and helping the skin to heal itself,” he says.

06
of 13

Consider Topical Creams

If you know that the redness on your skin is caused by rosacea, you can also look to certain prescription medications to treat your symptoms. Guanche recommends talking to your doctor about Rhofade or Mirvaso, both of which are applied as topical creams that relieve redness temporarily.

If your rosacea has you feeling especially dry, a calming lotion may also provide temporary relief. There are plenty of over-the-counter options available.

We like Weleda’s Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream ($20) for its rich formula, which is thick enough for the hands, yet gentle enough for the face. It’s a skincare fave for those looking to hydrate their dry skin.

07
of 13

Avoid Irritating Products

Redness can be exacerbated by certain ingredients in our skincare—namely acids, which are commonly used to exfoliate the skin. “Steer clear of strong retinoids or retinol, as these products can further irritate sensitive skin, as well as harsh physical exfoliants and polishing scrubs,” says Guanche. “Some acne products can be drying and should be used with caution if you have sensitive skin, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and glycolic acids.”

If you can’t part ways with your favorite acid-enhanced product, limit your use to just a few times a week or look to formulas that contain a low percentage of the good stuff. For example, many products containing glycolic acid may fall between 10 to 20 percent glycolic acid, although some, like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution ($13) and The Magic Pads 2% Glycolic Acid Pads ($20) are formulated with a lesser amount, which may be ideal for skin that becomes red or irritated easily.

Even if you’re not using harsh acids, Goldenberg says it’s a good idea to use a gentle cleanser twice daily. Also, apply a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher every morning, and use a nourishing moisturizer at night. He suggests using a low-dose retinol as well.

This Byrdie favorite soothing cleanser has five different skin-conditioning ingredients to allow you to wash up multiple times a day without getting irritated skin.

08
of 13

Revise Your Diet

Underlying redness can simply be related to a few outside factors. This is, of course, if you’re not dealing with a certified medical condition. If your redness is less medical and more environmental, sometimes it can be broken down into making simple changes in things like your diet. “We often recommend an anti-inflammatory diet, which includes green leafy vegetables, fish, essential oils, and low-glycemic fruits,” Goldenberg says. “Even more importantly it excludes simple sugars, grains, non-organic meats and dairy, and high-glycemic fruits. Pre- and probiotics are a must. Vitamin D supplements also help, even in those patients with normal vitamin D levels.”

In the same way that certain skincare ingredients may trigger the outer layer of the skin, some foods and drinks can inflame and irritate skin from the inside.  These foods tend to have high acidic content and can regularly produce flushed cheeks and persisting redness. “If you are prone to redness or rosacea, then you can avoid triggers, such as spicy foods, citrus, tomato, chocolate, and cinnamon,” suggests Guanche. Additionally, she lists heat, extremes in temperatures (either hot or cold), wind exposure, alcohol, and some warm beverages as additional triggers that can lead to redness or may induce rosacea symptoms.

09
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Make Lifestyle Changes

While persisting redness can be a frustrating problem, the cause is often more than skin deep. This means that the solution can require certain lifestyle changes in addition to the steps mentioned above. For lifestyle modifications you can make, Goldenberg advises the following:

  • Decrease sun/UV exposure
  • Stop smoking
  • Stop drinking hot beverages
  • Drink cold water while exercising

While this won’t necessarily “cure” redness, doing things like avoiding excessive sun exposure or using a cool compress can help reduce symptoms temporarily.

10
of 13

Try a Multifactorial Approach

Sometimes skin redness or flushing requires treatments and ingredients that at-home DIY solutions can’t offer. Calming red skin depends on its cause, especially when dealing with a skin condition. Goldenberg says rosacea is the most common cause of facial redness they see at his practice. “The best approach to treating this is multifactorial—we call it functional,” he says, “It includes a combination of nutrition and lifestyle modification, skincare, medications, and procedures, such as laser.”

Procedures such as microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which are anti-inflammatory, can often help patients that have an acne/rosacea combination. Goldenberg says microneedling works by resurfacing the skin and decreasing inflammation.

We recommend using this tool that pairs microneedling and red LED light technology to help skin texture and overall appearance.

11
of 13

Wear Sunscreen

Though it may seem obvious, sunscreen is often the most neglected part of a skincare routine. Yes, an SPF 30 or above shields your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents burning, but it also helps reduce unwanted flare-ups.

Heat and sun exposure often trigger skin conditions like rosacea and melasma. Plus using a zinc-based formula like the Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Mineral Moisturizer SPF 30 ($33) soothes and hydrates while blocking the sun.

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Minimize With Makeup

Redness relief exists, but unfortunately, most solutions are not immediate. If you are struggling with fading redness, try applying a color corrector. Green is the opposite of red, so look for a cream or concealer tinted with a greenish hue to erase rosy tones. Apply the Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30 ($52) to fresh, clean skin for more neutral-looking skin first thing in the morning.

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Talk to Your Doctor

If other options have been exhausted and you still can’t find relief from redness or flushing, it is always a good idea to consult your physician, especially if redness is combined with additional symptoms.

“If the red, flushed skin is associated with a rapid heart rate, sweating, and/or diarrhea, that is something more concerning that warrants further workup,” Guanche warns. “Carcinoid tumors or pheochromocytomas are tumors that can cause flushing and a racing heart, for example. Most cases of flushing, however, are just a benign genetic tendency.”

An Expert-Approved Skin Routine That Can Help With Rosacea

Article Sources

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  1. Hannah-Shmouni F, Stratakis CA, Koch CA. Flushing in (neuro)endocrinology. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2016;17(3):373-380. doi:10.1007/s11154-016-9394-8

  2. Hannah-Shmouni F, Stratakis CA, Koch CA. Flushing in (neuro)endocrinology. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2016;17(3):373-380. doi:10.1007/s11154-016-9394-8.

  3. Maruyama N, Tansho-Nagakawa S, Miyazaki C, Shimomura K, Ono Y, Abe S. Inhibition of neutrophil adhesion and antimicrobial activity by diluted hydrosol prepared from rosa damascena. Biol Pharm Bull. 2017;40(2):161-168. doi:10.1248/bpb.b16-00644

  4. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Facial redness.

  5. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Rosacea treatment: how to treat the redness.

  6. Weiss E, Katta R. Diet and rosacea: the role of dietary change in the management of rosacea. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2017;7(4):31-37. doi:10.5826/dpc.0704a08

  7. Singh A, Yadav S. Microneedling: advances and widening horizons. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):244-254. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185468

  8. John Hopkins Medicine. “Rashes and skin inflammation.”

Redness of the skin. Causes of skin redness

  • Problematic
  • Oily
  • Dry
  • Fading
  • Flabby
  • Itching
  • Irritation
  • Peeling
  • Cracks
  • Redness

Redness of the skin, otherwise referred to as erythema, refers to the signs of an inflammatory process and appears with the expansion of capillaries.

Reasons

A change in the color of the skin can be caused by both physiological and pathological causes.

  • The first are caused by the body’s response to external stimuli, which can be active ultraviolet irradiation (insolation), drugs (applied topically or systemically), massage and other types of mechanical effects on the skin. The same group of factors should include psychological stimuli to which a reflex response occurs. As a rule, this is a feeling of shame or anger, a feeling of the highest pleasure (for example, during an orgasm). There are cases when reddening of the skin was observed when the patient was introduced into a trance or hypnotic sleep.
  • The second are usually provoked by infectious diseases or dermatological pathologies that have an allergic nature of development.

Erythema often appears on the skin due to the abuse of flour products and sweets, as well as fried foods with a high salt content and smoked meats. Improper nutrition often exacerbates the course of skin pathologies, including acne, increases itching in eczema and psoriasis.

Depending on the causes, the affected areas can occupy significant areas of the skin. Most often, the diameter of the spots is no more than 5 cm, there are no clear outlines. The duration of erythema is temporary and persistent (characteristic of dermatitis occurring with inflammation).

Correction methods

Temporary tissue erythema regresses on its own, without special manipulations, when the factor that caused its appearance is eliminated. Persistent redness of the skin as a symptom of the disease requires diagnosis by a dermato-cosmetologist. After examining and passing some tests, the help of a gastroenterologist is often needed, since erythema can act as a sign of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and other pathologies in the gastrointestinal tract. The clinical picture of skin diseases excludes disorders of the stomach or other organs.

Treatment of the identified pathology is prescribed only by a doctor based on the history, laboratory results, taking into account the physiology of the patient’s skin. Systemic therapy aimed at suppressing the underlying disease and increasing general immunity is usually supplemented with local therapy. In this regard, the dermatologist prescribes creams and ointments that relieve irritation, swelling, itching and eliminate erythematous spots.

Redness on the skin: features and types, signs Redness on the skin, diagnosis and treatment | Pathologies

Apicenna

Common pathologies

Common pathologies with the letter P

Skin redness

1951

2

Contents:

    Redness on the skin is a symptom of many skin diseases and not only. Redness may be accompanied by the following diseases:

    Food allergy . It is accompanied by reddening of the skin, itching, the formation of sores and the appearance of strong scratching. It arises due to errors in nutrition (dacha “snacks”, cheese, sausage, etc.). Treatment is reduced to a specialized diet, giving antihistamines, if necessary, symptomatic therapy is additionally prescribed.

    Worm infestation . Periodic reddening of the skin, which does not depend on internal and external factors, disappears on its own after a while. This reddening of the skin is caused by the larval stages of nematodes (roundworms) in the migration stage. Treatment is reduced to giving anthelmintic drugs based on moxedectin and other drugs of the group.

    Infestation with ectoparasites. Insect parasites, the presence of which in animals causes redness of the skin accompanied by itching, scratching, sores. Often this reaction is caused by flea saliva. Treatment is reduced to the treatment of the animal and its habitats with insectoacaricidal preparations.

    Dana Ultra withers drops for dogs and puppies over 20 kg

    withers drops, 1 pipette x 3.2 ml

    Dana Ultra withers drops for dogs and puppies up to 5 kg

    drops at the withers, 1 pipette x 0.4 ml

    Dana Ultra drops at the withers for cats and kittens up to 4 kg

    drops at the withers, 1 pipette x 0.32 ml

    Dana Spot-On for dogs and puppies up to 20 kg

    Drops on the withers, 2 pipettes x 1.5 ml

    Dana Spot-On for cats over 3 kg

    drops on the withers, 3 pipettes x 1 ml

    Dana Spot-On for dogs over 20 kg

    drops at the withers, 4 pipettes x 1.5 ml

    Solfisan 5 l for veterinary supervision

    concentrated room treatment emulsion, canister – 5 l

    Solfisan 10 ml for veterinary facilities

    concentrated room treatment emulsion, bottle – 10 ml

    Solfisan 100 ml for veterinary facilities

    concentrated emulsion for the treatment of premises, bottle – 100 ml

    Solfisan 1 l for veterinary facilities

    concentrated emulsion for treatment of premises, bottle – 1 l

    Solfisan household 10 ml

    Concentrated room emulsion, 10 ml bottle

    Solfisan household 100 ml

    Concentrated room emulsion, 100 ml bottle

    Solfisan household 1 l

    Concentrated room emulsion, bottle – 1 l

    Solfisan household 5 l

    concentrated emulsion for treatment of premises, canister – 5 l

    ATTENTION

    The names of preparations are given for informational purposes.

    It is permissible to give any medication to a pet only as directed by a veterinarian.

    Dermatitis inflammation of the skin caused by various external and internal factors. There are a large number of different dermatitis. Most of the dermatitis is accompanied by reddening of the skin, then the symptoms depending on the disease may be different. Treatment depends on the type of dermatitis. It is worth remembering that there is a breed predisposition to dermatitis (white terrier, English bulldog, French bulldog, sharpei, etc.).

    Dermatophytosis is “lichen”. Accompanied by redness of the skin, itching may or may not be present. The treatment uses systemic and local antifungal drugs based on ketocanozole, terbinafine, etc.

    Fungin Forte 12 ml

    solution for external use, bottle – 12 ml

    Fungin Forte 30 ml

    solution for external use, bottle – 30 ml

    Fungin Forte 10 ml

    90 024 solution for external use, bottle – 10 ml

    Physiological process .