On message boards and skin health websites, people are asking about how to get rid of redness. Many of these forums are rife with pushers of acne products and snake oil; however, “facial redness” isn’t necessarily acne. Rosacea—a fairly common skin disease characterized by flushing of the skin, small red bumps, and visible blood vessels—is often confused with acne. Some people simply flush easily, either from embarrassment, anger, or other strong emotions. Redness can also be caused by overuse of skin products, allergic reactions, as well as debilitating diseases like cancer and lupus. I don’t mean to frighten or launch hypochondriacs off a balcony. The vast majority of people suffering from redness are dealing with acne.
My point is this: if you’re going to get rid of redness, you need to be certain about the cause. This page is not a substitute for going to see a doctor or dermatologist; however, below you’ll find thoroughly researched methods that show how to get rid of red areas caused by the most common culprits: acne, rosacea, allergies, and product-induced irritation.
Removing the Problem
Acne. There are many ways to get rid of redness caused by acne. First of all, acne sufferers need to have a disciplined yet sensible washing regimen. Once in the morning and once at night, washing gently with mild soaps and drying gently with a clean towel will suffice. It is also important to wash after sweating or working with grease or other pore-clogging substances. Groundbreaking research is also being done linking diet with acne. In a recent study, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and pastas (how everyone should eat) led to a decrease in acne.
Acne Treatments. If the above lifestyle changes don’t get rid of your acne redness, then it’s time to move on to other methods. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are common topical treatments for acne. Tea tree oil, another topical treatment, is gaining popularity. It has proven its efficacy as a natural astringent in countless trials. You can purchase tea tree oil in products like pads and gels, or you can purchase pure tea tree oil to apply directly. Some also mix pure tea tree oil (3-5 drops) in an aloe vera gel for overnight application. If these treatments fail, it may be time to visit a dermatologist. To learn more about getting rid of acne redness, read How to Get Rid of Spots.
Rosacea. Commonly confused with acne, rosacea afflicts 14 million Americans. Symptoms include frequent and easy flushing of the face, redness of the eyes and face, and small pimple-like, sometimes rash-like, spots. It generally comes on slowly—at first you may notice frequent flushing. Rosacea can be progressive, or it can flare up and go into remission. In severe, untreated cases rosacea can cause permanent damage to blood vessels and oil glands. To get rid of redness caused by rosacea, it is vital to start treating rosacea early, so if you are exhibiting any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Rosacea Treatments. Though groundbreaking research is being done, there presently is no cure for rosacea. Doctors will prescribe topical and oral antibiotics to bring symptoms into remission, and you’ll undoubtedly keep using topical treatments, such as metronidazole and sulfacetamide, to keep them there. To get rid of redness, enlarged blood vessels, and excess tissue that have been made permanent, doctors may prescribe laser surgery or electrolysis. To keep the redness away, avoid common flare-up triggers, such as prolonged exposure to sunlight, alcohol, warm drinks, spicy foods, extreme cold or heat, extreme emotions, and irritating skin products. Of course, not all individuals have the same triggers. To learn more about rosacea, read How to Get Rid of Rosacea.
Allergies and Irritation. Both allergies and irritations can cause skin redness and swelling. To get rid of redness caused by allergies or irritation, you’ll need to find the cause. What have you recently changed in your routine? New products, food, metallic jewelry? Allergic reactions can be delayed by days, but an irritant will cause your skin to redden immediately. In many cases, individuals can get rid of redness simply by getting rid of harsh acne products and irritation cosmetics. Treat the red areas with hydrocortisone cream, avoid irritants and allergens, and you’ll get rid of the redness quickly.Before Seeing a Dermatologist
In many places around our country, it is very difficult to see a dermatologist. Here in the North Country, a close friend had to wait seven months to get a conspicuous spot looked at. Because they are difficult and expensive to visit, you need to get your money’s worth. First of all, have your insurance information organized and ready. Show up free of cosmetics and jewelry, and put your hair up. Reflect about your symptoms and triggers before showing up so you will be more articulate in aiding your physician. Be proactive. Come prepared with questions and keep asking as they come. If you are visiting to get rid of redness caused by severe acne, you can expect to go home with lotions or gels like Differin (adapalene) and Rentin-A (retinoic acid). They may prescribe antibiotics or, if you have scarring acne, Accutane. Women are sometimes given oral contraceptives to balance hormones. If you find that your redness is the result of rosacea, treatment with oral and topical antibiotics will begin immediately. If your rosacea has caused permanent redness, swelling, or disfigurement, you’ll discuss more intrusive options such as laser surgery and electrolysis.
