What causes redness on the cheeks in a 13-year-old?

Generally, facial redness in the cheeks at age 13 may be caused by emotional fluctuations, environmental irritation, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, or contact dermatitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Emotional Fluctuations

During puberty, emotions are highly sensitive. States such as nervousness or excitement can stimulate sympathetic nerve activity, leading to facial capillary dilation and resulting in redness of the cheeks. Maintaining emotional stability, practicing deep breathing, listening to music, and other relaxation techniques can help alleviate excessive tension or excitement.

2. Environmental Irritation

Sudden exposure to cold or hot environments can cause facial blood vessels to constrict and then dilate due to temperature differences, leading to cheek redness. When going outdoors, take protective measures—wear a mask in cold weather and a sun hat in hot weather. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme conditions. Upon returning indoors, allow the skin to gradually adapt to temperature changes.

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

During puberty, increased sebum production combined with Malassezia fungal infection may trigger inflammation, causing redness of the facial skin, often accompanied by mild itching and flaking. Treatment may include ketoconazole cream, tacrolimus ointment, or pimecrolimus cream as prescribed by a doctor. Keep the face clean, use gentle facial cleansers, and avoid spicy and greasy foods.

4. Rosacea

Rosacea results from a combination of genetic factors and abnormal neurovascular regulation, leading to heightened reactivity of facial blood vessels. This causes persistent redness of the cheeks, which worsens upon exposure to triggers. Under medical guidance, oral medications such as doxycycline hydrochloride tablets or minocycline capsules, along with topical metronidazole gel, may be used. Avoid alcohol and spicy or irritating foods, and minimize exposure to extreme temperatures.

5. Contact Dermatitis

Exposure to allergens or irritants such as skincare products or shampoo can trigger an inflammatory skin reaction, causing redness and itching of the cheeks. Discontinue use of suspected products immediately. As directed by a physician, antihistamines such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, or loratadine syrup may be used. Avoid scratching the affected area and keep the skin clean and dry.

In daily life, choose mild skincare products; maintain regular sleep patterns to reduce intense emotional fluctuations; follow a light diet and limit spicy or irritating foods; and practice sun protection and environmental safeguards when outdoors to reduce the likelihood of cheek redness.