Red, dry facial skin is usually not a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable. The key to dealing with the symptoms is to identify the underlying cause. This may be challenging because so many factors may contribute to red, dry skin. Allergies, irritants, inflammatory disease and weather may be at the root of your skin changes. Your doctor can help you narrow down the causes and determine the best course of treatment.
Symptoms
Red, dry skin may be accompanied by itching or rash-like symptoms. To aid your doctor in diagnosing the cause, keep track of changes in appearance and condition of the rash. If you experience a rash, note the appearance, location and whether it looks raised or flat. If you suspect an allergic reaction or environmental trigger, note the foods you ate before the symptoms appeared and your exposure to other possible triggers in your surroundings.
Environmental Causes
Contact dermatitis is a common condition caused by contact with substances such as soap, skin care products and cosmetics. It produces a red rash or dry red patches that are limited only to areas exposed to the sensitizing substance. Sometimes a substance may produce symptoms only after the skin has been exposed to sunlight.
Allergic Causes
Allergic reactions may occur in response to exposure to natural substances found in plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, or certain molds. Common household allergens include metals such as nickel, perfume, hair dyes and cosmetic products. An allergic reaction may not occur the first time you are exposed to the trigger. In fact, an allergy can take many years to develop, notes MayoClinic.com. Food allergies can also result in facial eczema or dermatitis. Allergy testing can be helpful in identifying the substance that triggers these symptoms.
Other Causes
Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that produces red skin accompanied by raised red bumps. Approximately half of all patients with rosacea will also have itching and burning of the eyes. The condition is more common in individuals with fair skin who blush or flush easily. It is also common during menopause when it may be triggered by the same hormonal changes that cause hot flashes. Other possible causes of red, dry facial skin are acne, sunburn and exposure to cold or wind.
Treatments
Treatment for your red, dry skin will depend on the underlying cause. Rosacea and some types of dermatitis may require a combination of topical and ingested medications to keep the symptoms under control. Try to avoid scratching the area and wash gently with a mild soap that is free of dyes and perfumes. Apply a moisturizer that is labeled noncomedogenic and hypoallergenic, and avoid skin care products that contain alcohol.
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