|  | Conditions Treatments | Rashes

Preparation H for Facial Flushing

All it takes is a little embarrassment or a glass of red wine for some people to experience facial flushing. Blood rushes to the face and the cheeks often redden in color, accompanied by a warm sensation. But facial flushing can have a number of other sources, some more serious than others. From menopause to rosacea to hives, the causes of facial flushing are numerous and the treatments are different.

  1. Preparation H

    • Preparation H is a line of products used for the treatment of hemorrhoids (swollen veins around the rectum). These swellings can cause itching, pain and discomfort and are tender to the touch. Causes of hemorrhoids include diarrhea; exertion--such as heavy lifting or coughing; being overweight; and pregnancy or childbirth. Preparation H is available in cream or suppository form and is indicated only for the treatment of hemorrhoids.

    Myths and Realities

    • There are many notions circulating on the Internet and in popular culture that Preparation H is useful as a face application, either to help reduce swelling or to bring down facial flushing. These, however, are absolutely untrue. Preparation H smells quite unpleasant and has no dermatological application. It was once suggested that the live yeast cell in Preparation H was helpful for the skin, but this was a spurious claim, and the product has since been reformulated so that it no longer contains the ingredient.

    Treatments for Facial Flush

    • As mentioned earlier, facial flushing can have a number of causes, from totally benign to considerably more serious. Aside from simple blushing, rosacea is the most common cause. Other symptoms of rosacea may include temporary formation of thin red lines on the face, as well as the appearance of tiny pimples. In later stages, rosacea can cause eye discomfort and lead to rhinophyma, a condition in which the nose appears large, bulbous and covered with thick bumps. Consult a dermatologist to find out more about your facial flushing and what kind of treatments are available.

Rashes - Related Articles