‘The Curse of the Celts’, redness of the skin, is made worse by modern living, skin expert Dr Tom Mammone tells Brenda McCormick

For thos of us with a typically Irish or Celtic complexion, redness and rosacea can be a regular skin concern. In some cases it’s sporadic, a sudden flush of redness triggered by a reaction to a skincare product or extreme temperature which results in a tight, uncomfortable sensation.

For others it can be more of a persistent problem causing real discomfort, and the change to the complexion can knock confidence levels.

According to Dr Tom Mammone, Clinique’s Executive Director of Research and Development, there are a number of causes for this tendency towards redness. “Irritated, red and blotchy skin can often be attributed to genetics,” he explains.

“Usually, it is found in fairer skins or what is known as Fitzpatrick Type 1. This skin type has less melanin and is usually further aggravated by external factors, such as hot or cold weather or stress.”

If you are predisposed to the condition, a number of factors can induce a flareup. “People who are prone to redness have sensitive skin because of a weakened skin barrier and they will more readily react to environmental aggressors,” explains Dr Mammone.

“Common scenarios, such as lingering too long in a hot shower or having a cosmetic procedure, are likely culprits. Being embarrassed or stressed can also bring on a bout of flushing and blushing. Usually, this redness is centred on the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose.”

The urban environment (air-conditioning, pollution etc) and an increase in the use of harsh skincare products such as chemical peels and abrasive exfoliants have combined to cause a marked increase in the number of people with sensitised skin. Protecting skin from the sun and shielding against external irritants is essential, as is soothing and rehydrating inflamed skin.

Dr Mammone suggests looking for moisture - barrier- repairing ingredients such as cholesterol, squalane, wheat germ, barley extract and linoleic acid. In Clinique’s Redness Relief line, ingredients that help relieve the appearance or discomfort associated with persistent redness are white, yellow and red teas, glycine and a blend of caffeine, sucrose, resveratrol and algae extracts.

Clinique’s Redness Solutions is available at Clinique counters now