Run, Run Rudolph! How to Get Rid of a Red Nose
In this edition of the Tiege Hanley blog, we break down the causes of a red nose and outline the ways to eliminate the redness.
For starters, a red nose is something to take seriously. While it can and may be a minor issue that’s merely slightly annoying and damaging to your appearance, it can also pose greater problems if left unaddressed.
Causes of a red nose include excessive blowing of it due to a cold or allergies on the less serious side of the spectrum to skin diseases like rosacea and rhinophyma on the more extreme end. If the condition is brand new, seems to linger and especially if you’re above the age of 30, go see a dermatologist to understand exactly what’s causing your red nose (See claim: When to See A Doctor paragraph.)
From there, with the help of a dermatologist, consult our list of how to get rid of that red nose in an expedient fashion.
If it’s not Rosacea, Rhinophyma or Another More Serious Condition
Dry skin is often the underlying cause of a red, irritated nose. Frequent wiping of the nose due to a cold is a common way the issue arises, particularly during this time of year.
To prevent or correct a red nose, it’s no surprise that moisturizing often is the biggest step to take. Use a men’s daily moisturizer with SPF that fends off UV rays. Humidifiers, a diet high in vitamins C, D and E and a nightly skin care routine that replenishes dehydrated skin are all ways you can counter a red nose this winter.
TRY MEN’S SKIN CAREIf it is Rosacea
Despite the fact that clinical studies suggest rosacea is three times more common in women than men, men shouldn’t minimize its impact (See claim: First paragraph). In a National Rosacea Society survey of over 2,000 patients, men were more than twice as likely as women to suffer from an enlarged nose condition known as rhinophyma.
In addition to being unsightly, this is problematic because it can be painful and lead others to assume that they are heavy drinkers, a long-held misguided myth. Rhinophyma, at its worst, can require corrective laser surgery.
Before you get to that point, read up on how to recover from a red nose brought on by rosacea.
Get an Early Diagnosis
What at first may appear to be sunburn or a blemish on the cheeks, nose or chin could be rosacea. Watch to see if it reoccurs, grows at each reoccurrence and if visible blood vessels appear. Bumps, pimples and watery, irritated eyes could also be signs of rosacea and should lead you to the office of a local dermatologist (See claim: Warning Signs of Rosacea bullet points.)
The condition can be chronic, so instead of trying to cover it up with makeup or just hoping it will go away, consult a dermatologist who will conjure up a sensible treatment plan.
Employ a Proper Skin Care Regimen
Consistently applying moisturizer can lessen the burning, stinging, itching and irritation rosacea brings on (See claim: first paragraph.) Getting more technical for a second, rosacea often involves a defective moisture barrier in facial skin as well as abnormal transepidermal water loss, which becomes more of a threat after age 30 when this skin naturally grows drier.
Skin care products that combine moisturizer with a sunscreen are particularly good for rosacea, as they’re effective and gentler on irritated skin (See claim: last paragraph.)
Take the skin care quizAvoid Personal Triggers
Some of the most common triggers of rosacea include sun exposure, emotional stress (more on that in a bit), hot weather, cold weather, alcohol consumption, spicy foods and certain cosmetic and skin care products (See claim: Chart – Most Common Rosacea Triggers.) If you’ve had rosacea in the past, be mindful to avoid those things that can trigger new outbreaks. In regard to cosmetic and skin care products, read labels carefully for ingredients and consult your dermatologist to steer clear of unwanted exposure.
Give Mental Health its Proper Due
Nearly 80 percent of the 1,066 rosacea patients in the above survey listed emotional stress as a chief trigger. Self-esteem and confidence can take a considerable hit, due to worrying about what others will think, or even having to field questions from insensitive folks. Stress, anxiety, depression and isolation are common symptoms that arise from rosacea.
While putting a proper treatment plan in place is of the utmost importance, telling family, friends and co-workers about rosacea can alleviate awkwardness and boost confidence, as people better understand your condition.
In Summation
Above all else, visit a dermatologist if your red nose seems out of the ordinary. Moisturizing and being cognizant of personal triggers and your mental health are also keys to ridding yourself of a pesky and potentially serious issue.