How to Prevent Skin Redness

We often neglect taking care of our skin, but healthy skin does more than just look better: it keeps the elements and bacteria at bay and helps us interact to the fullest with our environment. But sometimes our skin can get irritated which leads to redness, pain and discomfort. Knowing how to prevent skin redness can keep your skin healthy and beautiful.

There are many causes of skin redness. The sun, the wind, heat, hot or spicy foods, alcohol, strong emotions, and certain illnesses or drugs can all cause skin redness. In addition, redness may be a sign of skin conditions such as rosacea, dermatitis and sunburn. See your pharmacist or doctor if you think you may have a skin condition, as you may be able to get a prescription to treat it. 

Taking care of your skin, protecting it and maintaining an overall health all help in preventing skin redness.

Take care of your skin:

• Cleanse your skin every day with a mild soap-free product and be sure to moisturize afterwards. Choose hypoallergenic products specifically formulated for sensitive skin and avoid products that contain fragrances or perfumes, as these may cause itching, redness or even an allergic reaction.
• Avoid products that dry out your skin, such as those that contain alcohols.
• Use warm water to wash your face. Make sure the water isn't too hot or cold.
• When taking baths or showers, use mild or “extra-moisturizing” soaps that are non-alkaline and unscented. Afterwards, dry your skin by patting it with a towel.

Protect your skin:

• Avoid clothing made with irritating fibres such as wool. Instead, wear clothes made of smooth fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk.
• When washing your clothes, use mild laundry detergents and fabric softeners.
• If you are going to be outside, regularly apply broad-spectrum, high SPF (≥ 30) sunscreen.
• Protect your skin from stressors like the wind or cold by wearing clothing that covers your skin.
• Avoid or limit your intake of foods that may cause skin redness, such as spicy foods and alcohol.

   

Skin health is related to overall health:

• Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Consult Canada's Food Guide for help.
• Make sure you get enough sleep and exercise regularly.
• Drink water on a regular basis throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
• If you smoke, consider cutting down or quitting smoking entirely. Speak to your pharmacist if you need help to quit smoking.

Your pharmacist can help you maintain healthy skin

If you have concerns about skin redness, consult your pharmacist. He can recommend skin care products that will help you avoid or treat skin redness. In some provinces, your pharmacist can even prescribe you medications that will treat your skin redness. Your pharmacist can also review your medications to see if any of them are possible causes of your skin redness. Overall, your pharmacist can play a large role in helping you keep your skin healthy.