Persistent redness on the nose, known as nasal erythema, is a common dermatological concern. This chronic discoloration is more than just temporary flushing; it suggests an underlying issue related to inflammation or blood vessel changes in the skin. Understanding the root cause of this persistent color change is the first step toward effective management. The most frequent cause involves a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
The Leading Cause: Rosacea
Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, and the nose is a common site for its manifestation. This condition is characterized by an abnormal neurovascular response that causes blood vessels to dilate more easily and remain enlarged.
Two specific subtypes are relevant to nasal redness. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR) involves persistent redness and the appearance of small, visible blood vessels, called telangiectasias, across the nose and cheeks. Phymatous Rosacea is a less common and more advanced form that leads to skin thickening and an enlarged, sometimes bulbous, appearance of the nose. Triggers often exacerbate the redness, causing sudden flare-ups. Common triggers include exposure to heat or cold, consumption of spicy foods or hot beverages, and alcohol intake.
Other Common Causes of Nasal Redness
Persistent broken capillaries, or telangiectasias, may develop due to long-term sun exposure or aging, causing fine red lines on the nose surface. Inflammatory skin conditions can also cause redness and irritation around the nose.
Seborrheic Dermatitis, for example, is a common condition that leads to redness, flakiness, and scaling, particularly in the nasal folds where the skin is oily. Perioral Dermatitis is another possibility, manifesting as a rash of small red bumps around the mouth and nose, often confused with acne.
Acute environmental exposure is a frequent culprit for temporary, yet noticeable, redness. Intense sun exposure without protection can cause a sunburn, leading to painful inflammation and peeling. Similarly, exposure to harsh wind and cold can result in windburn, causing the skin to become red and irritated. Constant friction from rubbing or wiping the nose due to allergies or a cold can physically irritate the skin, leading to contact dermatitis.
Lifestyle and Skincare Management
Managing persistent nasal redness involves identifying and avoiding personal triggers. Track reactions to common provocations like hot beverages, alcohol, spicy meals, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Minimizing exposure to these known factors can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of redness flare-ups.
Adopting a gentle, supportive daily skincare routine is essential. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers that do not strip the skin’s natural protective barrier. Avoiding harsh exfoliants or toners containing alcohol can prevent unnecessary irritation. Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is necessary, as UV radiation is a major trigger that exacerbates inflammation and vascular damage. Look for calming skincare ingredients like niacinamide or ceramides, which help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce overall sensitivity.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If nasal redness is persistent or worsening, a consultation with a dermatologist is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis. The specialist will examine the skin and symptoms to determine the underlying cause, such as a Rosacea subtype.
For inflammatory redness, prescription topical medications are used. These include metronidazole, which reduces inflammation and small bumps, and azelaic acid, which helps manage both redness and lesions. Brimonidine is a topical gel that works to constrict blood vessels, offering temporary reduction in persistent background redness.
For visible broken blood vessels and chronic background redness, procedural treatments are highly effective. Vascular lasers, such as the Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL), and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy target the dilated blood vessels. These light-based treatments cause the vessels to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body, minimizing the red appearance. In cases with more severe inflammation or pustules, a doctor may prescribe systemic treatments, such as oral antibiotics like doxycycline, used for their anti-inflammatory properties.