How to stop blushing

Blushing is something most of us experience from time to time, but for some, it happens too often or feels entirely out of their control. If you find yourself frequently worrying about going red, especially in social or professional settings, you’re probably wondering how to stop blushing or at least how to keep it in check.

In this article, we explore a wide range of ways to manage and reduce blushing. From lifestyle strategies and medications to treatments available at Melior Clinics, we’ll help you understand the options available and what might work best for you.

If your blushing is frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to speak with your GP to rule out any underlying medical conditions before starting treatment.

How to control blushing

Blushing happens when blood vessels in the face dilate in response to emotional triggers like embarrassment, anxiety or stress. For some people it’s a mild annoyance, however for others it can be a source of social anxiety.

Here are a few lifestyle and wellbeing recommendations that can help you control blushing more effectively:

1. Practise calming techniques

Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can help slow your body’s stress response and reduce the likelihood of flushing. Many people find guided tools, such as the Headspace app, useful for building these techniques into their daily routine.

2. Address negative thought patterns

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be an effective way to manage the fear of blushing, which often makes it worse. CBT helps reduce anticipatory anxiety and gives you coping strategies for social situations.

Find out more about addressing negative thought patterns.

3. Reduce external triggers

Blushing can also be worsened by environmental and lifestyle factors. Try:

• Avoiding hot drinks and spicy foods
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Dressing in layers to avoid overheating

Visit the NHS website for more information about reducing external triggers.

How to stop blushing when talking to people

Blushing during conversations is often linked to social anxiety. According to the Social Anxiety Institute, the fear of blushing can actually trigger it, which creates a cycle where the anticipation makes it worse.

To break this cycle, try shifting your focus outward (to the conversation, not your symptoms), and practise calming techniques like grounding or slow breathing. Over time, exposure to social situations can help reduce the emotional intensity of blushing.

If these strategies aren’t enough, professional support can make a big difference. At Melior Clinics, we offer botox treatments for blushing that target the physical side of social anxiety.

How to stop blushing medication

For people whose blushing is frequent, severe, or linked to social anxiety, medication can sometimes provide effective relief. There are a few different types of medicines that may be recommended – either by your GP or a specialist.

Prescription medications

Do beta blockers stop blushing?

Beta blockers are commonly prescribed to help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart, trembling and blushing.They work by blocking the physical effects of adrenaline, helping to steady your heart rate and reduce blushing, shaking or sweating.

They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline and can be particularly useful before stressful events like public speaking.

Beta blockers are best suited to:

• Situational blushing (e.g. public speaking, presentations)
• People without underlying cardiovascular issues

Read more about beta blockers for blushing.

Does propranolol stop blushing?

Propranolol is a type of beta blocker and one of the most widely used medications for managing blushing, particularly when it’s triggered by social or performance anxiety. It helps reduce the adrenaline response that causes your heart to race and your cheeks to flush.

Read the NHS information about propranolol.

Antidepressants (SSRIs or SNRIs):
For those whose blushing is linked to underlying social anxiety or generalised anxiety disorder, antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may be prescribed.

These medications can help manage anxiety over the longer term, potentially reducing episodes of blushing. Further information about the use of antidepressants for blushing from the Mayo Clinic.

Over-the-counter remedies

Although there are no over-the-counter (OTC) treatments specifically licensed for blushing, some options can help manage the underlying triggers, particularly anxiety and skin sensitivity.

• Herbal supplements: Certain calming supplements, such as valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile, may help reduce anxiety-related blushing.
• Topical treatments: Emerging research suggests that topical ibuprofen may help limit blood flow and facial redness associated with blushing. A study found that applying ibuprofen gel to the cheeks reduced blushing in some cases: PubMed – Topical Ibuprofen and Blushing
• Cooling strategies: Simple cooling techniques, such as applying a cold compress or sipping cold water, can help constrict blood vessels and reduce visible redness. More advice: Healthline – How to Stop Blushing

Always consult your GP or pharmacist before starting any new medication or supplement. It’s essential to ensure the treatment is appropriate for your individual health circumstances and does not interact with any existing medications you may be taking.

Does botox stop blushing?

Botox is widely known for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, but it’s also an advanced medical treatment used to reduce physical symptoms such as facial sweating and excessive blushing.

At Melior Clinics, we offer specialised botox treatments for blushing, designed to help people who struggle with intense, frequent or socially disruptive flushing.

How does botox for blushing work?

Blushing is often triggered by overstimulation of the sympathetic nerves in the face, which are the same nerves that control facial sweating. When these nerves are overactive, they send signals that cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to visible redness.

Botox works by temporarily blocking these signals. When carefully injected into key areas of the face, it can calm this overactivity, significantly reducing or, in many cases, completely stopping the flushing response.

Who is botox for blushing suitable for?

Botox for blushing is especially effective for people who:

• Experience regular or severe facial flushing in social situations
• Have found lifestyle changes and medications like beta blockers ineffective
• Are looking for a long-term, non-surgical solution
• Want to improve their confidence and comfort in professional or personal settings

Our treatment is safe, discreet and tailored to your individual needs. Results typically last for several months, with many clients returning for regular top-ups to maintain the benefits.

Book your consultation today

While it may not be possible to eliminate blushing entirely, there are many effective ways to manage it – from psychological techniques and lifestyle adjustments to medication and clinical treatments.

If blushing is affecting your quality of life or confidence, Melior Clinics is here to help with our specialised botox treatments.

Visit our botox for blushing page or book your appointment.