Emotional flushing that won't stop - when to see a dermatologist
Occasional blushing is normal. It is worth seeing a dermatologist if flushing is frequent, lasts a long time, is affecting your work or social life, or is happening on a background of permanent redness. Effective treatments are available, including medicines that reduce the flushing response and laser to treat increased blood vessels at the skin surface.
When flushing becomes a medical problem
For some people the anticipation of flushing in social situations becomes a trigger in itself, creating a cycle in which anxiety causes flushing and flushing increases anxiety. Signs that it is worth seeking help include flushing several times a day, flushes that take a long time to settle, permanent redness or visible thread veins between flushes, or avoiding situations because of flushing.
Flushing can also be a feature of rosacea, and less commonly of other conditions or of medicines.
What a dermatologist can offer
- Diagnosis: confirming whether the flushing is part of rosacea.
- Medicines: beta-blockers such as carvedilol or propranolol are particularly effective for flushing triggered by stress and anxiety, and can be taken daily or before a known stressful event.
- Laser: where flushing happens on a background of permanent redness, vascular laser often makes the flushes less noticeable.
- Support: cognitive behavioural therapy can help where anxiety about flushing is significant.
Flushing affecting your life?
I can assess your flushing and advise which combination of treatments is likely to help. Consultations can be in person or remote.
Related Articles
- Stress and emotional flushing
- Carvedilol for facial flushing
- Medications for facial flushing
- Common rosacea triggers and how to avoid them
