Persistent Skin Redness May Signal Facial Flushing [Dr. Kim Hyun-soo Column]

Facial flushing refers to a sudden reddening of the skin on the face, neck, head, and chest, accompanied by a sensation of heat that spreads throughout the body. This condition affects approximately 80% of Koreans on average, and problems most often arise when it is left untreated.

If skin redness persists for a long time, facial flushing should be suspected. Redness can temporarily occur due to changes in temperature or emotions, but if it occurs frequently or lasts a long time, facial flushing is the likely cause.

The causes are varied. UV exposure can damage the fibers surrounding skin blood vessels, causing degeneration and dilation that leads to facial redness. It can also develop as a sequela when inflammation from conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, or seborrheic dermatitis becomes chronic.

If the cause is vascular lesions appearing red due to dilated blood vessels, prompt treatment is urgent. As blood vessels gradually dilate, even the shape of the nose and facial surface can change, making early treatment essential.

The condition also tends to worsen over time and can cause complications depending on the underlying condition. Therefore, receiving an early examination and maintaining consistent treatment is necessary. For redness caused by capillary dilation, treatment with Synergy Laser can be considered.

Among available options, Synergy Therapy with erythema induction first enhances laser absorption through erythema induction, then irradiates the Synergy Laser onto the skin. Using two laser wavelengths, it selectively contracts or eliminates dilated blood vessels to reduce redness while stimulating collagen production to help improve skin condition.

Since facial flushing has a high recurrence rate, combining treatments that help reduce vascular inflammation is necessary. In addition to appropriate treatment, efforts to manage symptoms in daily life are also required.

Sunscreen must always be applied when going outside, and exposure to extreme temperature changes — such as prolonged time in hot baths or saunas, or cold winds in winter — should be avoided. It is also advisable to refrain from alcohol, tobacco, caffeinated beverages, and spicy or hot foods.

Cosmetics that can cause skin irritation should also be avoided. Additionally, since emotional changes can worsen facial flushing, maintaining emotional stability is also helpful.

(Dr. Kim Hyun-soo, ReYeonK Clinic Apgujeong)