Rosy cheeks can be a sign of many things, both harmless and potentially concerning. Often, they're simply a result of being hot or exercising, but they can also be caused by conditions like rosacea, slapped cheek syndrome, or even sunburn.
Here are some common causes of rosy cheeks:
- Increased blood flow: When you're hot, exercising, or feeling embarrassed, your blood vessels dilate, bringing more blood to the surface of your skin, giving your cheeks a rosy hue.
- Rosacea: This is a common skin condition that causes facial blood vessels to enlarge, resulting in red, flushed cheeks. Rosacea is often triggered by extreme temperatures, alcohol, or spicy foods.
- Slapped cheek syndrome: This is a viral infection that typically causes a bright red rash on the cheeks. It usually clears up on its own within a few weeks.
- Sunburn: Even in winter, your cheeks can get sunburned. Sunburn can cause redness, pain, and even blistering.
- Other conditions: Some other conditions that can cause rosy cheeks include acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
If your rosy cheeks persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, burning, or itching, it's best to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
