18 DON’T JUST LIVE WITH THE RED

REDNESS IS SOMETHING GH READERS ASK ME ABOUT A LOT. From small thread veins to full-blown rosacea, it’s confidence knocking. What’s more, strong colour contrasts in the face, whether from redness, dark circles or uneven pigmentation, have been found in studies to add years to your perceived age.

Often we get a little red around the nostril area – something easily disguised with concealer. On the cheeks, use concealer and skip blusher – though a little bronzer can help cancel out a flush.

For removing small thread veins, I’m a big fan of the Fotona Nd:yag laser. Heat from the laser is absorbed by the vein, which is broken down over the next few weeks, though you may need a second session. It stings a bit and you might get a tiny scab, but it’s quick and effective. My go-to practitioner for this is Vicki Smith at Absolute Aesthetics (from £135 for 15 minutes).

If you have rosacea, do go to a dermatologist. One I am always happy to recommend is Dr Sam Bunting, whose current treatment approach involves a product detox. ‘I eliminate irritants like fragranced or astringent products and banish exfoliation. I create a “clean” skincare routine based on a good moisturiser for barrier support, a non-foaming cleanser and high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen based on zinc oxide,’ explains Sam.

She is also likely to prescribe topical agents, such as Ivermectin (also known as Soolantra), for angry red bumps and whiteheads and, possibly, oral anti-inflammatory agents. There are emerging therapies for prolonged flush and fixed redness, too. For more of her sensible advice, watch Dr Sam In The City on Youtube.