Why is my nose always red?

+49 votes
asked Dec 19, 2018 in Beauty & Style by hayley (580 points)
edited Jan 15, 2019
I am so embarrassed. I feel like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. My nose is always red. I very rarely drink, so that can’t be the reason (some friends told me that could be a cause for a red nose). Does anyone know why this happens?

2 Answers

+26 votes
answered May 21, 2019 by Donella (920 points)
edited Jul 18, 2019

I, personally, would make an appointment with my doctor. It could be medical. If not, he or she may be able to give you a referral to a dermatologist as it could be a dermatological skin issue such as rosacea. Other than that, it could maybe be caused by the following more common issues:

  • Acne: sometimes the nose area can be greasy/oily and acne can be an issue. Sometimes acne is more below the skin and you will not see a “head.”
  • Alcohol: although you already said you hardly drink. This is probably not the cause for you.
  • Anger: is your nose more red when you are upset or angry?
  • Embarrassment: maybe your nose blushes more than the rest of your face?
  • Excitement: does this happen when you are overly excited?
  • Medications: Some medications may have this side effect. If you are taking medicines, check the side effects of the medicine.
  • Menopause: hot flashes can cause redness in the face.
  • Rhinophyma: a physical issue with no known reason or cause. This issue causes the nose to become enlarged and red.
  • Spicy foods: spicy foods can cause some people to have redness in their face.
  • Supplements: some supplements, such as niacin, can cause redness.
  • Sunburn: If this is your situation, remember to use sunscreen when going out.

Other, more severe yet less common, issues could be:

  • Allergies: seasonal or otherwise. You can do some test to find the allergen.
  • Carcinoid syndrome: caused by a carcinoid tumor (not trying to scare you but it is possible)
  • Lupus
  • Rosacea (like I mentioned before)
  • URI (upper respiratory infection) such as pneumonia, bronchitis, influenza, or even the common cold can cause reddening of the skin.

Check out these sites for more information that may help you:

http://www.healthline.com/health/rhinophyma

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rosacea/basics/definition/con-20014478

+5 votes
answered Mar 16, 2019 by Georgia (710 points)
edited May 2, 2019
Why is my nose always red? It is not only you!!! I have this problem too. I did go to my dermatologist and was diagnosed with Rhinophyma. Apparently, there is no specific reason or cause for this condition so it can’t really be prevented. :( Rhinophyma makes our noses inflamed. My dermatologist prescribed me some creams to take down the inflammation. There is a laser treatment but it costs way more money than I have and my insurance doesn’t cover it. You should see your dermatologist. Maybe your insurance will cover the laser treatment.
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