Do you have small red or purple lines visible on your nose, cheeks, or chin? These irregularities in skin’s appearance may be caused by broken capillaries. While this condition is completely benign (harmless), it can be frustrating or embarrassing for those seeking a clear complexion. According to Dr. Jennifer Holman of U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler, “There’s nothing more frustrating for patients than a problem they’re told isn’t a problem, and that includes the appearance of broken capillaries. While it might not physically harm them, it can impact confidence and leave people feeling frustrated with their appearance. If you want to diminish the appearance of broken capillaries, the good news is there are low intensity dermatologic procedures that deliver beautiful results. Laser and light therapies are some of the safest and most effective options.” In this blog, Dr. Holman discusses laser treatment for broken capillaries in depth exploring what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What Are Broken Capillaries?
Telangiectasias is the clinical term for broken capillaries. These small, dilated blood vessels visible below skin’s surface appear as fine red, purple, or blue lines. They may resemble interconnected webs beneath skin. Broken blood vessels can often be seen around the eyes and nose, on the cheeks, and along the chin and jawline. Broken blood vessels are usually visible on the most noticeable parts of the face, so this can make people feel self-conscious because they feel the visible blood vessels make them look older or less healthy.
Common Causes of Broken Capillaries
There are many different causes of broken capillaries, including:
- Aging skin – as we get older, skin thins, so underlying blood vessels are more noticeable.
- Sun damage – ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure damages collagen and elastin in skin. This leads to long-term skin concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also weaken the walls of blood vessels. This damage is a common cause of broken capillaries, especially on the nose and cheeks.
- Rosacea – this chronic skin condition has many symptoms, but visible, broken blood vessels are one of the most common.
- Sudden blood pressure shift – something as simple as sneezing or coughing can cause a quick increase in blood pressure that bursts fragile capillaries.
- Genes – those who have one or more family members with broken capillaries are more likely to develop them.
- Laser treatment – while laser and light therapies offer an effective solution for broken capillaries, improperly performed laser treatment can damage capillaries.
How Laser Treatment for Broken Capillaries Works
Laser therapies emit light at a wavelength that can be absorbed by hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in blood cells. The absorbed energy heats up the cells damaging the blood vessels and collapsing their walls. This may seem like it would make the appearance of broken capillaries worse, but it actually allows the body to reabsorb the damaged capillaries over the course of several weeks, making them less noticeable.
Types of Laser Treatments Used
Not all laser treatments offer the same results, so it’s important to work with a professional who can guide you to the right options. The types of lasers typically recommended to diminish the appearance of broken capillaries are Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL), including VBeam and PDL 1064nm Nd:YAG, and Intense Pulsed Light/Broad Band Light (IPL/BBL).
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL/VBeam and 1064nm/Nd:YAG)
PDL/VBeam and 1064nm/Nd:YAG treatments use precisely targeted bursts of high energy laser light to collapse blood vessels. The unique, built-in cooling system allows for effective treatment of broken blood vessels while minimizing discomfort and damage to surrounding areas. Because of the gentle, cooling technology, PDL/VBeam and 1064nm/Nd:YAG are often recommended to address broken capillaries on the face. It is proven effective even for the broken blood vessels that haven’t responded to other treatments.
Learn more about PDL rosacea treatment
Learn more about PDL/VBeam treatment
Learn more about 1064nm/Nd:YAG treatment
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)/Broad Band Light (BBL)
A broad-spectrum light treatment, such as IPL or BBL, targets pigmentation and vascular lesions. It’s not as precise as PDL/VBeam and 1064nm Nd:YAG, so it’s more often recommended for general skin redness and discoloration like that experienced by those with rosacea-prone skin. Because it improves general skin redness and discoloration, it’s a versatile light therapy option to improve overall skin tone.
Learn more about IPL Photo Rejuvenation
Learn more about BBL Photofacial
What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment
Before getting started with laser treatment, it’s important to understand what to expect before, during, and after broken capillaries treatment with laser or light therapy. This ensures patients have realistic expectations and understand what will happen during laser therapy.
Pre-Treatment
During an initial consultation visit, your dermatologist assesses skin to ensure the source of redness is broken capillaries. They’ll discuss your goals and concerns, answer questions, and help you understand the ins and outs of laser treatment. You should disclose any medical conditions and medications you’re currently taking to ensure there are no unexpected adverse reactions during laser treatment. Whatever dermatologic solution you decide to move forward with, your dermatologist will partner with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Leading up to laser treatments, minimize sun exposure for at least two weeks, and avoid using retinols and prescription retinoids that increase photosensitivity at least a week prior to treatment.
During Treatment
- Skin is carefully cleansed.
- Glasses and other protective shields are placed.
- In some cases, a gel cooling system may be used to minimize pain during laser therapy.
- The laser is applied to the broken capillaries, and you may experience a snapping sensation.
- The process is repeated until the desired area is treated.
Post-Treatment
- For the first 24 hours, there may be redness and swelling, but symptoms are subtle, and most patients are able to resume their daily routine right away.
- For the first 48 hours, avoid saunas, hot showers, unnecessary sun exposure, and strenuous exercise.
- For the first week to 10 days, there may be bruising, especially when treating larger broken blood vessels.
- For the first few weeks after treatment, minimize your skincare routine to just the essentials: a gentle cleanser, fragrance-free moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- For several weeks, improvement continues with most people seeing the final result within a month. If the desired results aren’t achieved, additional treatment sessions may be recommended.
Is Laser Treatment Right for You?
When it comes to choosing laser therapy, Dr. Holman says, “No dermatologic procedure works the same for everyone, every time. That’s why it’s so important that you understand potential side effects, have accurate expectations for results, and choose the right treatment. A dermatologist can walk through all of your options, answer questions, and help you choose the best type of laser therapy or other dermatologic treatments to achieve your goals.” Below, Dr. Holman outlines ideal candidates for laser treatment, those who should use caution and consult a dermatologist, and those who should consider alternative solutions.
Ideal Candidates
- Those with medium to light skin tones (there are some effective options for those with darker skin).
- Those who want to improve the appearance of visible broken blood vessels, skin redness, and rosacea.
- Those in good general health who have realistic expectations for the potential results of laser treatment.
When to Consult a Dermatologist
- Those who have broken blood vessels or skin discoloration that is worsening.
- Those who haven’t had success with other topical or dermatologic treatments.
- Those who want to improve the cosmetic appearance of broken blood vessels but aren’t sure if laser therapy is the right option.
Who Should Avoid Laser Treatment
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Those taking medications that increase photosensitivity.
- Those with active skin infections, especially in the treatment area.
On-going Treatment for Rosacea
In cases of rosacea, it’s important to note that laser therapy doesn’t cure rosacea but is a part of effectively managing the condition. Continued laser treatments are recommended. A dermatologist can help determine how frequently these laser treatments are advised.
Conclusion: Explore Laser Therapy for Broken Capillaries
In conclusion, Dr. Holman emphasizes, “Laser therapy is a very low risk, high reward treatment option for broken capillaries and a variety of other concerns related to the appearance of skin, including issues like hyperpigmentation and scarring. Minimally invasive but highly effective, the right laser treatment can transform the look and feel of skin with little downtime, leaving patients feeling more confident right away.”
Consult a Dermatologist About Laser Treatment
For broken blood vessels and facial redness, laser therapy is one of the most effective treatment options, but it’s not the only option. If you’re interested in improving the appearance of skin and restoring even, bright skin tone, it’s time to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your treatment options. At U.S. Dermatology Partners, our trusted dermatologists offer a wide array of laser treatments and other skin rejuvenation solutions, so don’t hesitate to reach out to schedule a consultation. We’re standing by to discuss your options for achieving clear, healthy skin.
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