ask mh Why do we blush? The physiology is easy: under the influence of adrenaline, blood vessels in your face – and only your face – dilate, tinting your mug red. Like other facial signals, this seems to have a social function. Say you’ve inadvertently violated a norm, by burping on the bus, for instance. Unless you’re a complete oaf, you’re going to blush. By exhibiting an involuntary sign of embarrassment, blushing testifies to your sincere regret. But the reaction doesn’t have to result from an
Is there anything I can do to make a scar less visible? – KR
– MK
obvious wrongdoing: we also tend to blush when we receive compliments, out of a sense that we don’t really deserve them (or to satisfy others who might think they deserve them more). The involuntary part is important, as there is no such thing as an insincere blush. Blushing helps the people around us know how we fit – or don’t fit – into the group. Fortunately, most people think blushing is cute, so it tends to unleash a flood of reassuring responses when you need them the most.
Pretend you’re prepping for a day at the beach. Summer may have just finished, but the sun’s ultra-violet rays can still trigger the formation of free radicals that can reduce your skin cells’ ability to heal, says cosmetic dermatologist Dr Robyn Gmyrek. She recommends applying a scar ointment such as Mederma Scar Cream +SPF30 ($32.95; pharmacyonline.com.au). In addition to the sunscreen, this (try navigating a “maybe” response) and subtly bring it up in conversation over a drink. Respond accordingly. Read: raised eyebrow = pursue cautiously. Blank face = back down. Slap in the face = start looking for a new booty call.
Ask the MH girls the questions you can’t ask anyone else. They’re three women with strong opinions, so don’t expect sugarcoated responses
Got a question for Ask Men’s Health or The Girls in the Office? Email menshealth@pacificmags.com.au or head to yahoo7.com.au/menshealth.
Q
I’m casually sleeping with two women who’ve both mentioned they’d have a threesome. How do I make this come together (pun intended)? – AC Cassie By quitting it with the terrible puns and actually asking them if they’re up for it. Also, wine. Crystelle Sorry to have to shatter your dreams, but you need a reality check: the majority of girls who say they could be up for a threesome are only playing that line to get you excited and make you think they’re daring and awesome. I’d say your chances of pulling this one off are slim to none. Alice I tend to agree with O Wise One above, AC, but on the off-chance you’ve found yourself a daring duo, I’d suggest you shy away from a Facebook invite
Q
One word: Tinder. Discuss. – TR Crystelle If you’re after casual hook-ups, then go for it. I wouldn’t sign up expecting to find your future wifey, though. Cassie Isn’t Tinder just Grindr for straight people? I had a stranger-danger rule with my old flatmate about this: no Grindr randoms allowed in the house, just in case they come back later for the telly. Or my cat. Always go back to their place – your stuff will be safe and you can escape immediately without any of that awkfest post-bone chitchat. Alice Two words: do it. Though I prefer traditional pick-up methods, I’ve heard only good things about this online option. You may not find The One, but you could have a bit of fun with The One(s) Leading Up To The One.
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Hi ladies, what’s your view on amateur porn? Specifically putting it on RedTube for millions to enjoy. The idea really excites me and my girlfriend, but my worst fear is someone at work seeing it. Reckon I’m being too paranoid? – PP Crystelle Don’t do it, PP! Of course someone you know will see it! And then you’ll be the butt of all their jokes. Quite literally. Alice That paranoia is justified, my friend. It’d be hard to cover your fantasy footprints after it’s shared in a public arena. Trumping awkward work scenarios, flash-forward
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product contains an onion extract that is thought to inhibit the production of excess collagen, which is the basis for scar tissue. For raised scars, Gmyrek also advises treating the area with silicone gel sheets (Scar Heal Scar FX Silicone Sheeting; $29.95, chemistdirect.com.au). These little epidermal blankets keep your skin hydrated, reducing redness and promoting healing. If your mark is more than a year old, see a dermatologist to discuss advanced treatments. Depending on the size and texture of the scar, they may recommend laser resurfacing, cosmetic fillers or steroid injections. to if you procreate and your tiny tots track down Mum and Dad getting frisky. If you go ahead with the promiscuous plan, you might want to also start saving for little Timmy and Tammy’s therapy sessions. Cassie Please do it! There’s nothing more hilarious than amateur porn. Besides, if anyone you know does see it, they’d probably be way too embarrassed to say it. To your face, anyway.
Q
My girlfriend and I fight like hell, but the sex is amazing. I know this can't last forever, but, well, we've got a good thing going. We've been together for about a year and are both in our late twenties. How much longer should I give this? – AP Alice Time to call your own bluff. Using mind-blowing sex as a BandAid for a broken relationship ain't healthy, AP, irrespective of age. Bid adieu to the current flame, whose misery levels must be on par with your own, and find a bed occupant who has more on her relationship CV than just sizzling sack antics. Cassie Look, we all get off on drama and make-up/break-up sex when we’re young and stoopid. But you guys are almost 30! Me thinks it’s time to grow up, AP. Give up this “good thing” now, before she gets pregnant. That’ll really dry up all your “amazing” sex – then what will you have? Crystelle Here's the thing, AP – all couples experience conflict. It's a normal part of being in a relationship. The fact that you fight like cat and dog isn't healthy, but you can defo get help and learn how to fight fair – if you think your relationship is worth it. If the only thing you two have in common is your love of sexy time, then maybe the answer to that is no.