Why do people’s faces turn red?
Short answer
Small blood vessels near the skin can widen, increasing blood flow and making the face look red. This can happen with embarrassment, heat, or exercise.
How it works
Widening of blood vessels is called vasodilation. When more blood flows near the surface of the face, the color seen through the skin changes and the face may look flushed.
Strong emotions, a rise in body temperature, exercise, and alcohol are some possible triggers. In many cases, the change is temporary and fades when the trigger settles.
Key point
Redness that lasts a long time or comes with pain or itching can have other causes. This article explains a general body response and is not a medical diagnosis.