Our Doc Will See You Now

Can’t stop blushing? Tired of thigh chafing? Dr. Raj is here for you.

I turn red easily, and feeling my cheeks heat up makes me more embarrassed. Help!

Blame adrenaline: Your brain releases this hormone when you feel sheepish about something. Adrenaline causes your blood vessels to dilate, and as blood rushes to the surface of your skin, you get those telltale rosy cheeks.

If you have fair skin, the effects may be more noticeable. And interestingly, when you’re ovulating, you might blush more often, research suggests.

Going red is totally involuntary, but you may be able to ward off the response by practicing a go-to relaxation technique just before an anxiety-ridden event (say, a first date or a big presentation). Doing a meditation, for example, or a deep- breathing exercise can bring your adrenaline level down, so it’s easier to keep calm later (even when you say something you wish you hadn’t).

I have a problem with thigh chafing—it’s really painful. And it always gets worse in the summer. What can I do?

There are a lot of things to love about summertime, but chafing isn’t one of them. Whenever your thighs rub against each other, or a piece of clothing, it causes friction that irritates the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). Add some sweat on a hot day, and it creates more friction. Aloe vera gel can soothe the swelling and pain. But sometimes the skin gets so blistered and raw it needs to be treated with a prescription-strength ointment.

To protect your inner thighs—and any other body part—this season, experiment with an anti-chafing balm or gel. These products lubricate your skin to cut down on friction. Or you could use a powder to absorb moisture and help keep the area of sensitive skin dry.