Red spots on my nose for over 10 years. How can I remove these? (Photos)

Question

Red bumps on nose for 10 years or more. They look like pimples. I have to use steroid medications like Mometasone because of seborrheic dermatitis.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your long-term concern.

Based on your description — red spots on the nose persisting for over 10 years and a background of seborrheic dermatitis treated with Mometasone — these bumps could be one of the following:

Rosacea (Subtype: Papulopustular or Erythematotelangiectatic) – This is a chronic condition that often presents with red bumps, especially on the nose and central face, and can persist for years if untreated.

Sebaceous hyperplasia – Enlarged oil glands often appear as flesh-colored or slightly red papules, particularly on the nose.

Steroid-induced rosacea or perioral dermatitis – Long-term use of topical steroids like Mometasone on the face can cause or worsen these conditions, leading to persistent red bumps.

Acneiform eruptions – Less likely if this has been stable for over a decade, but still a consideration.

Management Recommendations:
Stop using topical steroids on the face (unless explicitly prescribed short-term by a dermatologist) — they can worsen or cause persistent facial eruptions over time.

Switch to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory creams such as pimecrolimus or tacrolimus if anti-inflammatory action is still needed.

Topical treatments like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin cream can be helpful for rosacea or steroid-induced dermatitis.

Oral medications such as doxycycline (low-dose) may be needed for persistent inflammation or redness.

Laser therapy or IPL (intense pulsed light) could reduce visible redness and vascular components if present.

If the red spots resemble dilated capillaries or have not changed in many years, they may also be benign vascular growths like telangiectasias or angiomas, which can be treated with lasers.

Consistent and gentle skincare, sun protection, and discontinuing facial steroids are essential in helping manage and improve this condition.

Red spots on my nose for over 10 years. How can I remove these? (Photos)

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Red spots on my nose for over 10 years. How can I remove these? (Photos)

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.