Reducing redness

Whether genetic or environmental, you may not be able to completely banish redness, but you can take steps to help control it.

Wear a sunscreen daily: look for one containing calming ingredients like Green Tea and Licorice to help soothe and control flare-ups. Choose moisturizers containing green natural mineral tint (not an artificial color!) to help cancel out visible redness.

Be mindful of what goes in your body. Smoking is somewhat like suffocating the skin from the inside: it inhibits the body’s ability to provide oxygen and nutrients to skin while restricting blood vessels. Excessive intake of alcoholic beverages  and certain medications (such as nasal decongestants) can also contribute to dry skin, leaving skin more susceptible to sensitivity.

Don’t over shower or over-scrub: The loss of existing oil is commonly caused by excessive bathing or showering, or the use of harsh soaps that dissolve the protective layer of oil.

Never ever shave without a protective medium. Using dull razors can also weaken the skin’s barrier function, leaving it exposed to environmental assaults.

Take note of what triggers the “red” reaction in your skin: certain foods such as artificial sweeteners or spices can bring on the flush look. Also be aware of your hormones, stress levels, physical exertion, and adrenal shifts.