1. substances that cause redness of the skin by increasing blood circulation when applied topically
Usage: medical; plural form

Examples

• The doctor prescribed rubefacients to improve circulation in the patient’s legs.
• Common rubefacients include menthol and capsaicin-based creams.
• Athletes often use rubefacients before competition to warm up their muscles.
• The pharmacist explained that rubefacients work by dilating blood vessels near the skin surface.
• Traditional rubefacients like mustard plasters were once widely used for chest congestion.
• Modern rubefacients are gentler than the harsh preparations used in the past.