The present invention provides a methods and compositions for treating a patient having a skin condition characterized by vascular hyper-reactivity, such as chronic or episodic flushing or blushing, and/or rosacea. The method comprises applying a topical composition to affected areas of the patient's skin. The topical composition comprises an effective amount of a botulinum neurotoxin for decreasing vasodilation in cutaneous microvasculature, and a carrier for effectively transporting the botulinum toxin to the cutaneous microvasculature. The invention thereby provides a safe, effective, comfortable, and/or convenient manner of treating vascular hyper-reactivity in skin.
