Exercise Without Flushing

Exercise is crucial for overall health, but for many with rosacea, the resulting heat and flushing can be a major deterrent.

Why does exercise trigger redness?

Exercise increases your heart rate and core body temperature. To cool down, your body pumps more blood to the skin's surface, causing blood vessels—especially the hypersensitive ones in the face—to dilate (become wider to allow more blood flow) dramatically. This can result in the intense prolonged flushing. For some, medications can help manage this flushing.

How to manage heat and circulation triggers?

The key is to keep your core body temperature as stable as possible. * Choose a cool environment: Exercise indoors in an air-conditioned room or outdoors during cooler parts of the day. * Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of cold water before, during, and after your workout. * Use cooling tools: Keep a damp towel or a facial mist with thermal spring water nearby to cool your face and neck. * Break it up: Instead of one long, intense session, try shorter, more frequent workouts. * Choose lower-impact activities: Swimming, yoga, or pilates may generate less intense heat than running or high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

If these measures are not sufficient then medications such as beta blockers can be helpful.

Related articles

Dr. Magnus Lynch, Consultant Dermatologist

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis, Mohs micrographic surgery, acne, rosacea, acne scarring and laser treatments. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer. In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at the London Bridge Hospital, OneWelbeck (near to Bond Street station) and on Harley Street. A new consultation is £250. Book A Consultation.

I am the founder of Revessa Health which provides online consultations for acne and rosacea across the UK (see below).

Revessa Health
UK Online Specialist Care

The Online Acne & Rosacea Specialists

Video consultations with specially trained GPs and consultant dermatologists.
Founded by Dr Magnus Lynch, Consultant Dermatologist
GP consultation
£80
Consultant dermatologist
£220
Book Online →
Revessa Health consultation
Back to home