Blushing is a common problem that can be embarrassing and affect your day to day life. There are things you can do to help stop it.
How to help stop yourself blushing
Do
- breathe deeply and try to relax – read about breathing exercises you can do to help reduce stress and anxiety
- keep cool by removing a layer of clothing and drinking water
- wear make-up that reduces the redness of your skin in stressful situations like an interview or when giving a presentation
Don't
- do not eat spicy foods or drink alcohol or hot drinks if they make you blush
Common causes of blushing
Lots of different things can cause blushing. It's often caused by feeling embarrassed, hot or anxious.
Sometimes other symptoms you have might give you an idea of what's causing it.
| Symptoms | Possible causes |
|---|---|
| A red face most of the time, small blood vessels can be seen under your skin, spots | rosacea |
| Hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, low mood, reduced sex drive | menopause |
| Sweating a lot, particularly in your armpits, hands, feet, face and groin | excessive sweating |
| Swelling in your neck, anxiety and irritability, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, tiredness | overactive thyroid |
Some medicines can also cause blushing. Check the side effects of any medicine you're taking to see if blushing or flushing is listed.
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- your blushing is affecting your everyday life
- you think your blushing might be caused by a medical condition or a medicine you're taking
Treatments from your GP
Treatment for blushing will depend on the cause.
For example, your GP may suggest:
- a talking therapy like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) if your blushing is caused by stress or anxiety
- medicines to help reduce anxiety, stop blushing or treat an underlying condition
Very rarely, surgery may be an option if blushing is severe and other treatments have not helped. But this can cause serious and long-lasting side effects.
Page last reviewed: 28 March 2019
Next review due: 28 March 2022