RED ALERT

THE surprising reasons for a flushed face. This week: Eczema that makes you red

A RED face accompanied by dry, flaky skin and stubborn dandruff could be seborrheic dermatitis — a chronic form of eczema.

But unlike some other forms, seborrheic dermatitis is not the result of an allergy. The exact cause is unknown, but microorganisms such as yeasts that live on the skin are thought to contribute to it. It can develop at any age and common triggers include stress and hormonal changes such as those that occur around the menopause or during pregnancy.

TREATMENT: In mild cases, a rub-on antifungal cream or medicated shampoo may be enough to control symptoms, but in more severe cases, corticosteroid medications to ease the inflammation may be prescribed.