How to reduce redness and flushing from Retinol usage?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had facial flushing in my cheeks for about one month, and have not gone away. It varies from mild to bright red day today. It began after I tried using Retinol and experienced peeling, so I stopped after one week. I saw a doctor who said it was contact dermatitis because I used other harsh products during the Retinol treatment. However, I can see broken capillaries on my cheeks.

Is this rosacea?
How can I make the redness go away?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Flushing, persistent redness, and telangiectasia could be signs of rosacea. Moreover, retinoids can flare up rosacea. A common cause of rosacea in some individuals is the usage of potent topical steroids on the face. I suggest you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid the sun.

Is there such a history? However, they are not implicated in a large number of cases.
Do you also have acne?
Why were you using retinoid?
What other products have you been using?

I request you to kindly upload an image of the skin so that I can have a look and guide you accordingly.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Perhaps you already had some underlying tendency for rosacea. Moreover, products such as retinol, witch hazel, and AHA/BHA can flare up the already sensitive skin of patients with rosacea. Hydrocortisone is safer than all other steroids, and I suggest you use it for a week or so to reduce the redness (that is persistent), but not if your primary concern is only flushing. In the latter case, just continue with sunscreen, stay away from the sun, and use a moisturizer. Of course, you need to avoid any harsh topicals for now.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.