Facial blushing often accompanies emotional triggers, and it is commonly seen in conjunction with hyperhidrosis, a disorder causing abnormally heavy perspiration. Blushing typically appears and fades away within a minute or two, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, or NZDS. However, it can still be a source of embarrassment for those who experience it readily, severely or for longer duration. While extreme cases of blushing are sometimes treated surgically with a procedure called an endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, the necessity is rare, and there are several ways to limit or stop blushing without surgery.
Step 1
Research the known side effects of any medications you take, because facial blushing may be one, notes the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence, or NIHCE. Consider whether the onset of blushing coincides with beginning a new prescription. Ask your doctor about alternative treatments, as stopping use of the medication is the only way to eliminate blushing in these instances.
Step 2
Inhale deeply into the diaphragm with your back straightened, and count to 10 when you begin feeling overwhelmed by emotions, such as stress, anxiety, anger or embarrassment. Relax your muscles as you slowly exhale. Focus your thoughts on something besides the source of your agitation, on something positive or serene. Repeat until you feel calmer.
Step 3
Tense your toes for five seconds, and then relax them for another 30 seconds. Do the same with your calf muscles next. Continue working your way up your body to your shoulders and neck. Briefly tense, and then relax major muscle groups along the way.
Step 4
Identify your emotional triggers of blushing and when you are about to feel temporarily overwhelmed by them. Remain cognizant of your thoughts, and redirect them to focus on something that is not a source of stress. Undergo cognitive behavioral therapy with a trained psychologist to understand and manage the thought patterns better that can lead to your blushing, as the NZDS suggests.
Step 5
Take medication, such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors or beta-blockers, if your psychiatrist prescribes it to help control anxiety and stop facial blushing.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the NIHCE, buserelin, triptorelin, goserelin, leuprorelin, tamoxifen, raloxifene, calcitonin, glyceryl trinitrate, isosorbide dinitrate or calcium-channel blockers are all medications associated with facial blushing as a side effect. Practice calming yourself with deep breathing on a daily basis, advises National Jewish Health. This prepares you to use it more effectively as an instant relaxation technique when needed. Clonidine is sometimes prescribed to help control facial blushing, notes the NZDS.
