Broken Capillaries on face? How to get rid of them? Whilst it is important to know the cause of the broken capillaries. Effective treatments include sclerotherapy or using a vascular laser. At HEMAC, we always combine our treatments with LED light to further reduce redness from deep under the skin.
What is it and what causes it?
These are commonly known as ‘spider veins’. They are tiny blood vessels visible near the surface of the skin and appears like spider legs- hence the name. They sometimes appear like red or purple patches or even a small red ‘rash that never goes away’.
Spider veins can be found around the nose, cheeks and mouth areas as well as upper chest and legs.
These broken capillaries cannot repair themselves and overtime can get worse as the walls weaken and the capillaries are more vulnerable to breakage.
Several known causes of broken veins are:
- Genetics
There are some evidence to show that weaknesses of capillaries may be in the genes. - Environmental
UV radiation and Sunburns
Windburns or extremely cold conditions
Sudden fluctuations in temperature i.e. saunas
Rises in body temperatures- eating spicy food, exercise
Chemical skincare products - Hormones
People who are going through hormonal changes may experience spider veins as their body tries to adjust. This is the reason why broken capillaries on face and arms are more common in women than in men. Examples of periods of hormonal changes are puberty, pregnancy and menopause. - Trauma
Any form of trauma or injury to the skin can rupture blood vessels. Examples are wounds, skin surgery or intense cosmetic treatments. Pressure applied on your nose due to glasses can also be a contributing factor. - Aging
As we become older, the collagen and elastin in our skin become weaker because they are not replenished as quickly. As the skin gets thinner, veins are more noticeable. - Skin condition
Fair skin
Dry and dehydrated skin
Sensitive and thinner skin
Rosacea ( condition that makes skin red and flushed)
How can I treat it?
For many years, sclerotherapy was the only way to treat spider veins. Injections of a sclerosing solution causes inflammation and swelling in the walls of capillaries leading to closure. Treatments are generally well tolerated. Mild pin prick sensation is felt and you can have some bruising and darkening of the treated veins for several weeks.
Vein treatments are done 6 weekly. The treatment may cause some discolouration to the skin which gets lighter after several weeks. A series of treatment is necessary to produce good results.
At HEMAC, we sometimes combine injections and laser therapy- IRIS laser to further enhance closure of veins. The heat from the IRIS laser helps to shut surrounding tiny vessels at the same time activating the sclerosant.
IRIS laser is also used to treat surrounding pigmentations at the same time as treating fine capillaries. As a bonus, the skin looks rejuvenated with a more uniform colour and tone.
Smaller areas of concern can also be treated. Several sessions are usually needed for full resolution.
What are the possible side effects or risk of the treatments?
Immediate side effect are the bruising and swelling from the sclerosant solution. If laser treatment is added, patient can expect slightly more swelling due to the heat. We use cryostamp to cool down the skin and assist with speedy recovery post treatment.
Veins may initially darken and bruising may take several weeks before they begin to fade. As the body breaks down the tissues, patient will notice clearer skin. Further sessions are planned if necessary at 6 weeks.
After sclerotherapy, we recommend that strenuous activities and prolonged standing be avoided for a day or two. Patients may also be encouraged to wear support garments that snuggly wrap the treated area. The gentle pressure of the support garment can facilitate the healing process and minimize side effects.
How many sessions do I need?
Every person’s skin is different. This means that IRIS laser therapy for facial veins may consist of a few or several sessions. An estimated number of treatments is recommended after a thorough consultation and examination of the skin.