What causes skin redness, and what can you do about it?

Skin redness is a common concern, especially for those with sensitive skin, like pregnant women, small children, or anyone seeking gentle, fragrance-free skincare. Whether it's a fleeting flush or persistent irritation, redness can affect how your skin feels and how you feel in your skin. The good news? When you understand what causes skin redness, it becomes easier to support your skin in feeling calm, comfortable, and beautifully balanced.

Why does skin redness occur?

There are many reasons why skin may appear red; from environmental stress to natural sensitivity. Knowing the cause helps you care for your skin more effectively.

• Sensitive or thin skin: Any skin type can be sensitive, meaning it reacts easily to various external factors, such as cosmetics, detergents, dry air, cold, sun exposure, or even taking a sauna. Naturally delicate or thin skin is especially prone to irritation and may show visible blood vessels more easily.
• Skin conditions:
  • Couperosa is a skin condition where small blood vessels near the surface of the skin become dilated or break, leading to persistent redness, most commonly on the cheeks and nose. The skin may also feel dry, tight, or experience stinging and burning sensations. While couperosa typically appears between the ages of 30 and 50, it can affect younger individuals as well.  
  • Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It causes symptoms like persistent redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps.
  • Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often begins in childhood but can affect people of all ages. Eczema tends to flare up periodically and is linked to a weakened skin barrier, making the skin more vulnerable to irritants, allergens, and environmental factors.
  • Allergic reactions can often lead to skin redness, especially in individuals with sensitive or reactive skin. This redness is typically a sign of inflammation, where the skin is responding to an irritant or allergen and may need extra gentle care and protection.
• Environmental stressors: Cold wind, sun exposure, and sudden temperature changes can trigger redness.
• Lifestyle triggers: Spicy foods, alcohol, hot drinks, and stress can all contribute to flare-ups.
  

For pregnant women, hormonal changes can make the skin more reactive. For children, their skin is naturally thinner and more sensitive, making gentle care essential.

How can you help your skin feel more comfortable every day?

While some redness is unavoidable, there are many gentle ways to support your skin’s natural comfort, especially when it’s sensitive or reactive. However, if redness is persistent, painful, or accompanied by bumps or swelling, it’s important to consult a dermatologist. Conditions like rosacea or eczema may require medical treatment alongside your skincare routine. Listening to your skin and knowing when to seek professional help is part of caring for it with kindness.

1. Avoid scented products

Fragrances, whether synthetic or natural, can be irritating to sensitive skin. Choose fragrance-free skincare to minimize the risk of redness and discomfort. This is especially important for pregnant women and small children, whose skin may be more reactive. Did you know that all our Well by Orion Pharma products are fragrance-free?

2. Switch to sensitive products

If you experience skin redness, your skin may be sensitive - and that means choosing the right products becomes especially important. Sensitive skin responds best to gentle, nurturing formulas designed to support its natural balance. Look for products specifically labeled for sensitive skin or carrying an allergy label.

All our products are formulated to suit the needs of sensitive skin, so here is our recommended skincare routine: Start by cleansing with the Gentle Cleansing & Moisturizing Cream, which gently removes impurities without drying the skin. While your skin is still slightly damp, apply the Calming Facial Serum to help support the skin barrier and maintain hydration. To finish, use the Gentle Cleansing & Moisturizing Cream again, this time as a leave-on treatment, to lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and cared for throughout the day.

3. Protect from the elements

Sun exposure and cold weather are common triggers for skin redness, especially for sensitive skin. Daily protection is key, even on cloudy days. Use a gentle sunscreen with SPF to shield your skin from UV rays, and reach for hats, scarves, or shade when spending time outdoors.

4. Makeup

If you use makeup, choose products formulated for sensitive skin and avoid heavy layers. Mineral-based foundations and fragrance-free formulas are often better tolerated. Always remove makeup gently at the end of the day to avoid buildup and irritation.

5. Be gentle with your skin

When applying products or drying your face, avoid rubbing the skin. Instead, gently pat with clean hands or a soft towel. Also, be mindful of water temperature while showering or washing your face; too hot water can irritate sensitive skin and increase redness. Choosing gentle habits helps your skin feel calm, cared for, and supported.

Your skin deserves kindness

Redness is your skin’s way of asking for gentler care. By choosing calming, protective products and embracing a mindful routine, you can help your skin feel soothed and supported every day.

At Well by Orion Pharma, we believe in skincare that’s gentle, effective, and comforting for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin. Explore our fragrance-free range designed with love for mothers, babies, and anyone seeking gentle wellness.