Stress and Emotional Flushing

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

The link between emotions and skin is powerful, and for those with rosacea, feelings of stress, anxiety, or embarrassment can be a potent trigger for intense facial flushing. This can create a difficult cycle, where the fear of flushing itself becomes a source of stress.

Why emotions trigger redness

When you experience a strong emotion like stress or anxiety, your body activates the "fight or flight" response. This triggers the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn stimulate the release of inflammatory mediators in the skin. It also directly activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing blood vessels in the face to dilate rapidly and dramatically, resulting in a visible flush.

Strategies to reduce anxiety flushing

Managing anxiety-induced flushing involves both short-term coping mechanisms and long-term stress reduction. * In the moment: Practice slow, deep breathing to calm your nervous system. Sipping cold water or using a cooling facial mist can help constrict blood vessels. * Long-term: Regular practice of stress-management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help lower your baseline stress level and reduce the intensity of your flushing response over time. For severe cases, oral medications can also be very helpful.

Related articles

• Common Rosacea Triggers and How to Avoid Them
• Medications for Facial Flushing
• Rosacea, Self-Esteem and Mental Health

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. 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 and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

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.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.