Have You Heard of Couperose?
Couperose is a vascular condition where fine blood vessels appear reddish or bluish beneath the skin. This condition usually develops after the age of 30 and can be caused by genetic predisposition, high blood pressure, excessive sun exposure, or alcohol consumption. If you have fair and sensitive skin, you are more likely to experience it.
While it can be bothersome, there’s good news: There are steps you can take to minimize its effects.
1. Avoid Coffee, Alcohol, Nicotine, and Spicy Foods
These habits promote vascular problems. Smoking, in particular, narrows capillaries—the smallest blood vessels—leading to blood pooling and vessel damage. Saunas, sunbathing, and extreme temperatures can also exacerbate the condition.
2. Exfoliation
Be cautious with exfoliation. Sensitive couperose-prone skin does not tolerate mechanical scrubs well, as they stimulate blood circulation. However, chemical peels such as fruit acid peels are excellent for your skin. They can remove dead skin cells, tighten the skin, and stabilize blood vessels.
Friction is generally not good for your skin—so it’s best to avoid massages as well.
3. Sun Protection
For sensitive skin, it’s crucial to avoid triggers for redness, including UV exposure. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF that is fragrance-free and free of essential oils. This will protect your skin without irritating it.
4. Frozen Beauty
Cooling has a positive effect on your skin by constricting blood vessels and reducing redness. Store facial sprays, toners, creams, or similar products in the refrigerator for an extra soothing effect.
5. Use the Right Ingredients
Your skin may not tolerate every product you’d like to use. Stick to products with ingredients specifically designed for couperose-prone skin. Avoid products with fragrance, essential oils, or circulation-boosting ingredients.
For best results, opt for skincare products for couperose or sensitive skin. These typically contain calming and anti-inflammatory ingredients to reduce redness. Plant extracts like horse chestnut, linden blossom, or oat are particularly effective.