The present invention relates to a method of treating, reducing, inhibiting, preventing and/or reversing cutaneous facial flushing caused by abnormal, endogenously-induced vasomotor instability associated with, but not limited to acne rosacea, menopause-associated hot flashes, hot flashes resulting from orchiectomy or ingestion of substances capable of inducing a cutaneous facial flushing reaction (e.g.: alcohol, chocolate, spices) by topical dermatological application of an effective dose of a composition comprising at least one α2 adrenergic receptor agonist (such as a (2-imidazolin-2-ylamino) quinoxaline derivative such as brimonidine tartrate)and a suitable carrier.