These red patches flare up every night, but my doc can’t see me until next month. Any idea what’s happening?

Red Patches That Flare Up at Night: Causes, Concerns, and What to Do Before Your Doctor’s Appointment

If you’re experiencing red patches on your skin that flare up every night, you’re not alone — and it’s understandable to be concerned. Skin changes can be alarming, especially when they appear on a predictable schedule and resist over-the-counter treatments. Waiting to see a doctor can feel frustrating, but understanding potential causes, triggers, and management strategies can help you cope until your appointment.

In this article, we’ll break down what might be happening, why these patches appear at night, and practical steps you can take to reduce discomfort and monitor symptoms effectively.

1. Understanding Nighttime Skin Flares

Red patches that appear or worsen at night can be caused by several mechanisms, often involving blood flow, inflammation, skin sensitivity, or allergic reactions. Nighttime flares are particularly interesting because your body’s physiological processes change while you sleep:

Body temperature rises slightly in the evening, which can cause blood vessels in the skin to expand, intensifying redness.

Histamine levels increase at night, which may worsen itching and inflammation.

Circadian rhythms affect hormone levels, immune response, and skin barrier function — all of which can contribute to nighttime flares.

Because of these changes, conditions that are relatively mild during the day may become more noticeable or uncomfortable in the evening.

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