Redness in the face: the most effective treatments for a more even complexion
Redness in the face can be bothersome; it draws attention, feels sensitive, and is difficult to conceal. Whether it’s flushed cheeks, red patches, or visible blood vessels… it occurs more often than you might think. Fortunately, there are effective ways to calm your skin and create a more even complexion.
In this blog, you’ll read about where facial redness comes from, the different types, what you can do yourself, and how we can help you at Huidzorg West.
Facial redness: what causes it?
Redness occurs when blood vessels in the skin dilate, become damaged, or inflamed. This can be temporary—for example due to emotions, temperature changes, or physical exertion—but it can also be chronic, such as with rosacea or couperose.
The cause differs from person to person. Genetics, sun exposure, skincare, diet, stress, or sensitive skin can all play a role.
Not all redness is the same: the differences and how to treat them
Facial redness is common and can have various causes. To treat redness effectively, it’s important to know which type is present:
Couperose
Small, visible blood vessels on the cheeks, nose, or chin that can be caused by sun exposure, genetics, skin ageing, or temperature changes. IPL or laser therapy is an effective and safe way to treat couperose.
Rosacea
Chronic redness accompanied by bumps, inflammation, and a burning sensation. The main triggers are sun exposure, spicy foods, hot showers, stress, alcohol, and genetics. Soothing skincare is very important, as is avoiding triggers. IPL or laser therapy is an appropriate treatment for rosacea.
Sensitive/reactive skin
Skin that turns red quickly when touched, when using products, or during temperature changes, often accompanied by a tight, itchy, and irritated feeling. This is often caused by a weakened skin barrier. Choose mild skincare products that help soothe and restore the barrier.
Eczema
Eczema flare-ups are (usually) also accompanied by redness. Make sure to closely follow the treatment advice provided by your dermatologist, GP, or skin therapist.
(Temporary) flushing
Redness caused by emotions, heat, or physical activity. Diet and stress can also lead to dilated blood vessels. This is usually harmless but can be experienced as bothersome. Identifying and avoiding triggers, reducing stress, and using soothing skincare can help. For persistent redness, IPL or laser therapy may reduce symptoms.
Give your skin a helping hand: what can you do yourself?
While treatments can do a lot, it’s also important to continue taking good care of your skin yourself. This can help keep facial redness under control and sometimes even heal or prevent it. But what can you do yourself to reduce redness?
Use gentle skincare
Products containing ingredients such as niacinamide, aloe vera, chamomile, or panthenol can help reduce redness and calm the skin.
Avoid aggressive cleansing or scrubbing
Cleansing too often or too harshly can damage your skin barrier, which can actually worsen redness. Opt for a gentle cleanser and pat your face dry instead of rubbing. Always use water at body temperature.
Protect your skin from the sun
UV radiation is a well-known trigger for redness. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily—and don’t forget to reapply every two hours.
Be mindful of temperature changes
Large differences between hot and cold (such as hot showers or cold wind) can trigger redness. Try to avoid extreme temperatures.
Limit spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine
Although these may boost your mood, they can also act as triggers for the blood vessels in your face.
Hydrate your skin
Well-hydrated skin is better able to protect and repair itself. Use a daily moisturiser that suits your skin type and feels comfortable on your skin.
Pay attention to stress
Easier said than done, but stress can intensify inflammatory reactions in the body, which can also affect your skin. Regular relaxation can truly help.
Does the redness persist or worsen? At Huidzorg West, we work with you to identify your triggers and create a treatment plan fully tailored to your skin needs.
Make an appointment?
Say goodbye to redness: healthier skin starts with the right care. After reading this blog, are you curious about what we can do for your redness? Then make an appointment for a no-obligation consultation at Huidzorg West Delft or Huidzorg West Rijswijk. Our experienced skin therapists are happy to help you.
If you have any questions after reading this information, feel free to contact us via info@huidzorgwest.nl or call +31 15 2561 806. Our team is happy to assist you and answer your questions. See you soon in our clinic!
Team Huidzorg West