Red Spots on Face: How To Stop Looking Like A Tomato

Do you ever feel like a walking tomato? What about when all of those little red spots start to appear and make you look more like a pepperoni pizza than the beautiful, glowing person that you are? 

Well, don’t worry! Though red spots on your face can be annoying, there are many ways you can get rid of them to start shining bright again. In this blog post, we’ll talk about face redness, the main causes and how you can get rid of it quickly with high-quality skincare products!

Why is my face red?: The main causes + how to reduce redness on face 

There could be several reasons why your face is red. Here we’ll explain some common causes of red spots on your skin and recommend the best course of action so you can go back to your beautiful, redness-free self. 

1. Sun exposure

Sun exposure can cause red spots on your skin, especially if the exposure is prolonged or you have sensitive skin. Sunburn is one of the most common causes of facial redness caused by sun exposure. Sunburn can cause peeling, blistering, and long-term damage to the skin.

What to do

It's important to always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV radiation and limit sun exposure during peak hours. If you do experience sunburn or skin redness, use aloe vera based products or a cool compress to soothe the affected area and avoid further sun exposure until your skin has fully healed.

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2. Skin conditions

There are a variety of skin conditions that can cause redness and skin irritation. Here are a few common skin conditions that can cause red spots and how to reduce redness on face according each one:

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and visible small blood vessels on the face. Other symptoms of rosacea can include red bumps, pimples, and thickened skin on the nose. Rosacea can occur at any age, but it's most common in middle-aged women with fair skin. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but there are several factors that can trigger symptoms, such as sun exposure, stress, alcohol, and spicy food.

What to do

Treatment options for rosacea typically involve a combination of lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers, along with topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and redness. In severe cases, laser therapy may be used to remove visible blood vessels or reduce the appearance of thickened skin on the nose.

Pityriasis rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition that can cause red and scaly patches on the skin. It often starts with a single, large, scaly patch known as a "herald patch" and can spread to other areas of the body, including the face. Pityriasis rosea is a self-limiting condition that usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to a few months.

What to do

In some cases, treatment may involve creams such as calamine lotion, antihistamines, topical steroids, or UV light therapy to manage symptoms like itching, discomfort and reduce redness on face. If you suspect that you have pityriasis rosea, it's important to see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Atopic dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common skin condition that can cause red, inflamed and flaky skin. Eczema is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, and irritated. In severe cases, it can cause cracks, blisters, and oozing from the affected area. Eczema or atopic dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, and can be triggered by factors such as dry air, stress, and allergies. 

What to do

Treatment for eczema or atopic dermatitis typically involves a combination of medications such as topical corticosteroids (for example an hydrocortisone cream), emollients to moisturize the skin, and avoiding triggers that may exacerbate symptoms. 

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause redness and inflammation on the skin. There are not exact causes for this condition but it could be a combination of environmental factors and genetics. Psoriasis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply too quickly and form thick, reddish patches, scaly skin. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, including the face. Psoriasis can also cause itching, burning, and pain in the affected areas.

What to do

Psoriasis treatment typically involves topical creams with ingredients like BHAs, oral medications, or light therapy to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Additionally, emollients are an essential part of a good skincare routine for psoriasis, as they can help to prevent dryness and irritation, which can exacerbate symptoms.

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Acne (Acne Vulgaris)

Acne is a common skin disorder which occurs when the hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Inflammatory acne, which is more severe, can cause redness and swelling in the affected area. Acne can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, neck, chest, and back.

What to do

Treatment for acne typically involves topical and/or oral medications to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria on the skin and ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid, green tea, and acids. It's important to avoid picking or squeezing acne lesions, as this can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring. If you have persistent or severe acne, you should visit a dermatologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan that fits yourself.

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Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition in people with oily skin that can cause red, scaly, inflamed patches on the face and scalp. It's a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs due to an overgrowth of yeast on the skin. Seborrheic dermatitis can be triggered by stress, weather changes, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.

What to do

Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis typically involves the use of medicated shampoos, creams, and ointments to reduce inflammation and control the overgrowth of yeast and oil excess on the skin. In severe cases, prescription medications may be needed to manage symptoms. If you suspect that you have seborrheic dermatitis, we recommend that you visit a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin rash caused by exposure to an irritant or allergen. It can cause red rash, itchy patches, and inflamed skin. Contact dermatitis symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the duration and severity of exposure to the irritant or allergen. Irritant contact dermatitis can and allergic contact dermatitis occur anywhere on the body, including the face. Common irritants that can cause contact dermatitis include soaps, detergents, cleaning products, and certain fabrics. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen, such as poison ivy, nickel, or latex.

What to do

Treatment for contact dermatitis depends on the cause, and typically involves avoiding the irritant or allergen and using topical anti-itch creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and itching. In severe cases, oral steroids or phototherapy (light therapy) may be recommended. If you suspect that you have contact dermatitis, it's important to see a board certified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment plan.

Shingles

Shingles can cause red and painful rash. Shingles is a viral infection caused by the herpes zosters virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can lay inactive in the nerve tissue near the spinal cord and reactivate later in life as shingles. The first symptom of shingles is typically a painful and burning sensation on one side of the body, which is usually followed by a red and blistering rash. The rash can appear anywhere on the body but is most commonly seen on the face, torso, and neck.

What to do

Treatment for shingles typically involves antiviral medications, pain relievers, and topical creams and ointments to reduce inflammation and itching. If you suspect that you have shingles, it's important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to manage symptoms and prevent complications such as post-herpetic neuralgia, if topical treatment doesn’t seem to improve symptoms your doctor may consider prescribing laser treatment to help.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause a variety of symptoms, including a butterfly-shaped rash on the face that spans across the cheeks and nose, which is commonly known as a malar rash. The rash typically appears as red, raised, and scaly patches on the face, but it can also occur on other parts of the body that are exposed to sunlight. In addition to the rash, lupus can also cause joint pain, fatigue, fever, and other symptoms that can vary in severity depending on the individual.

What to do

Treatment for lupus typically involves a combination of medications to manage symptoms and address underlying inflammation, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials, and immunosuppressants. If you suspect that you have lupus, it's important to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment.

Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is an autoimmune disease that can cause red, itchy skin, and flat-topped bumps on the skin that may develop into scaly patches. While lichen planus can occur on any part of the body, it can sometimes appear on the face and neck. The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, but it's believed to be an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body's immune system attacks the skin and mucous membranes.

What to do

Treatment for lichen planus typically involves the use of topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching. In severe cases, ultraviolet light therapy or other systemic medications may be recommended. You can visit a board certified dermatologist for a proper diagnosis if you have any suspicion of lichen planus and get a proper treatment.

Skin Cancer

While skin cancer can present with different symptoms, it can indeed cause pink or red spots on face that may resemble a rash. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer that may appear as red or pink spots on the face. Basal cell carcinoma typically appears as a pearly, pink or red bump that may bleed or scab over, while squamous cell carcinoma can appear as a scaly or rough red patch or bump. Melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, can also present as an irregularly shaped red or pink spot that may itch or bleed. Other symptoms of skin cancer can include changes in the appearance of existing moles or the development of new moles or lesions.

What to do

It's important to see a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious changes on your skin, as early detection with a skin biopsy and treatment can improve the prognosis for most types of skin cancer.

3. Allergic reaction

An allergic skin reaction to a certain product or ingredient can cause the skin to become itchy and red. When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system may treat it as a threat and trigger a reaction that can cause skin redness, irritation, itching, and swelling. Allergic reactions may also cause hives or rashes on the face and other parts of the body. Common allergens that can cause facial redness include certain foods, poor quality skincare products, fragrances, and makeup.

What to do

If you suspect that an allergic reaction is causing your facial redness, try to identify the allergen and avoid it in the future. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention from an allergist or a board-certified dermatologist. 

Also, if you’re looking for hypoallergenic, non-irritating skincare products to reduce redness, at Asian Beauty Essentials we have a curated collection of hypoallergenic goodies that will help you calm and soothe your skin!

4. Skincare products

Using harsh products or over-exfoliating can cause the skin to become irritated and red. Overusing skincare products such as scrubs, toners, or cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin barrier, leading to inflammation and redness. 

What to do

It's important to use gentle products that are suited for your skin type and avoid over-exfoliating or over-drying the skin. If you do experience skin irritation, take a break from harsh products and use soothing, hydrating skincare products like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides to calm the skin. In severe cases, it's best to consult with a dermatologist for proper treatment and care.

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5. Heat rash

Yes, heat rash (also known as miliaria) can cause red skin on the face and other areas of the body. Heat rash occurs when the sweat ducts become blocked or inflamed, causing little red bumps or blisters to form on the skin. Heat rash is more common in hot and humid weather conditions or after prolonged physical activity, as the skin produces more sweat.

What to do

To prevent heat rash, it's important to let skin cool off and avoid excessive sweating. You can also wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing made of cotton or other natural materials. If you do experience heat rash, try to stay in a cool place and avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area. In most cases, the heat rash will go away on its own within a few days.

6. Drug rashes

A drug rash is an adverse reaction to a medication that typically causes a red, itchy rash that can appear anywhere on the body, including the face. The rash may start as small, red spots and then spread, becoming more widespread and itchy over time. Drug rashes can occur as a result of allergic reactions to the medication or from an interaction with the medication.

What to do

Treatment for drug rashes typically involves stopping the medication or switching to an alternative medication, as well as using topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching. If you suspect that you have a drug rash, it's important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, as severe drug rashes can be life-threatening.

7. Petechiae

Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin caused by a variety of conditions, including bacterial or viral infection, medications, and blood disorders. While petechiae can occur on any part of the body, they can sometimes appear on the face. Petechiae occur when capillaries, which are tiny blood vessels in the body, burst and leak blood into the surrounding tissue. They typically appear as small, pinpoint-sized dots that do not blanch when touched.

What to do

Treatment for petechiae depends on the underlying cause, and may involve antibiotics for infections, stopping medications that may be causing the symptoms, or blood transfusions for blood disorders. If you develop petechiae on your face, it's important to see a healthcare provider.

Skincare products to reduce redness on face: Where to find them?

If your face is permanently stuck in "embarrassed tomato mode", now you know the reason behind your skin’s redness and it’s time to do something about it! 

At Asian Beauty Essentials we have a curated collection of skin-soothing products that will help you calm your angry, red skin while also nourishing your complexion with natural, skin-loving ingredients.