What Causes Ruddy Skin—and What Can You Do About It?

Facial redness is common and happens to everybody—your cheeks may become flushed when you’re excited or embarrassed, for example, or perhaps your face becomes red after a particularly intense workout. If you have ruddy skin, however, that redness never completely dissipates: it’s always slightly flushed.

While having a ruddy complexion isn’t uncommon, it can be frustrating to deal with. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to help minimize redness, soothe your skin, and promote a more even skin tone. Ahead, we’ll share details on what causes ruddy skin, how to manage redness with skincare products, and tips for concealing unwanted redness with makeup. 

What Is Ruddy Skin?

Ruddy skin refers to skin that frequently appears red and blotchy, particularly on the nose and cheeks. Unlike rosacea—a skin condition that typically coincides with irritation and sensitivity and may require medication to manage—a ruddy skin color typically isn’t cause for concern. In many cases, the redness can be managed with a proper skincare routine (more on that in a bit).

What Causes Ruddy Skin?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), several factors can contribute to a ruddy face, including sunburns, acne, and exposure to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold). In some cases, genetics, skin conditions, allergies, or health issues may also be to blame. If you’re dealing with persistent redness, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with your dermatologist to determine if there’s any underlying condition causing your ruddy skin. A dermatologist can also help you build a skincare routine to support a more balanced, healthy-looking complexion. 

How To Manage Ruddy Skin

If you have a ruddy skin complexion, following a consistent skincare routine may help minimize the appearance of redness and promote a more even complexion. Here are four tips to keep in mind when building out your routine. 

1. Take sun protection measures

Daily sun protection is a cornerstone of an effective skincare routine—whether you have ruddy skin or not. Using sunscreen every day (even in the winter) protects the skin from harmful UV rays and can help prevent painful sunburns that make your ruddy skin appear even redder. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests opting for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of at least 15. We’re partial to the L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion, as it’s lightweight, hydrating, and suitable for all skin types and tones. Apply a generous layer to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before heading outside, and remember to reapply your SPF at least every two hours or after sweating or swimming. Keep in mind that sunscreen is only one aspect of effective sun protection: The FDA also recommends avoiding direct sunlight at midday and seeking shade whenever possible. 

2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

One of the best things you can do for ruddy skin is apply moisturizer daily. Per the AAD, moisturizing helps trap water in the skin, which can minimize the feeling of irritation and make your skin feel more comfortable. Many moisturizers can also help strengthen the skin barrier, which can in turn make your skin more resilient when exposed to stressors. 

We suggest opting for a fragrance-free moisturizer, as fragrances can sometimes be irritating for those with more sensitive skin. If you have oily or combination skin, try a lightweight water-based moisturizer, like the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives Micro Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides Line-Plumping Water Cream. It provides deep hydration and absorbs quickly with a non-greasy feel. For those with drier skin, consider the L’Oréal Paris Collagen Filler Moisture Filler Anti-Aging Moisturizer. The fragrance-free formula delivers up to 48 hours of hydration to help promote smoother, plumper-looking skin. 

3. Don’t over-exfoliate your skin

Exfoliation can be helpful for promoting a smoother, more even complexion, but overdoing it can worsen redness and irritation. If you have ruddy skin, we suggest sticking with gentle chemical exfoliants that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). The L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner is a great pick. It’s formulated with glycolic acid (an AHA) and aloe vera and provides gentle exfoliation to help renew skin texture and tone. Plus, it’s alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types. You can use it daily, but if you’re new to exfoliants, you may want to start with twice-weekly usage and gradually increase usage as your skin acclimates. 

Another great option—particularly for those with ruddy skin and dark spots—is the L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Exfoliant Peel. This nighttime treatment helps brighten the skin, improves skin texture and tone, and helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and discolorations. Keep in mind that, unlike the toner, this isn’t meant for daily use. Start with a once-weekly application (at night). If your skin responds well, you can increase the frequency and use it up to four nights per week. 

4. Avoid irritating skincare products

A ruddy face can sometimes be a sign of irritation, so if you’re prone to redness, you’ll want to be mindful of the products you use. If you notice redness after completing your skincare routine, it may be a good idea to consult your dermatologist for help identifying what could be affecting your skin. Your dermatologist can also advise you on ingredients to avoid if you’re prone to irritation. 

How To Disguise Ruddy Skin With Makeup

Makeup can be a handy tool when you want to conceal ruddy skin. Here’s how to apply your makeup to mask facial redness and feel more confident.

1. Start with primer

Makeup primer helps create a smooth base for your foundation and can help extend the wear time of your makeup. For ruddy skin, we suggest using a primer that neutralizes redness, like L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24H Redness Eraser. The color-correcting formula instantly minimizes the appearance of facial redness. Over time, it also helps promote a more even-looking complexion.

2. Apply full-coverage foundation

After smoothing on your primer, you’ll want to reach for a foundation to further help even out your skin tone. We love the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 32 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation. The ultra-thin liquid formula feels incredibly light on the skin, and it offers a natural-looking, medium-to-full coverage finish. Plus, it’s formulated with SPF 25 to further help protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. 

3. Use spot concealer where you need more coverage

While a ruddy skin color can present as all-over redness, more commonly, you’ll notice redness in specific areas (like the nose and cheeks). To disguise any redness still peeking through your foundation, reach for the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer up to 24H Full Coverage to get the job done—it boasts a waterproof, matte finish that stays put for up to 24 hours. If you favor a more skin-like finish, try the L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer, which contains hyaluronic acid and boasts a hydrating feel. 

4. Bronze and complete the rest of your makeup

If you have ruddy skin, you may want to consider skipping blush to avoid emphasizing your skin’s red tones. Instead, add dimension with a bronzer, such as the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Bronzer. The waterproof formula comes in eight natural-looking shades and boasts a soft matte finish that appears natural—not cakey. You can also apply highlighter, eyeshadow, mascara, lipstick, or whichever makeup products you’d like to complete your look.

5. Finish with a setting spray

Once you’ve finished applying all of your makeup, lock everything in with a setting spray, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Mist. The transfer-resistant formula helps set makeup in place for up to 36 hours and dries down quickly without any white cast or visible residue. It also helps prevent makeup from cracking, flaking, or caking—helping to ensure your look remains fresh all day (and night).

Next Up: How To Get Glass Skin: 15 Tips To Try

Photo Courtesy of L’Oréal Paris