January 30, 2019

How To Get Rid of Spider Veins on the Face

Molly Peters
January 30, 2019
Facial spider veins, ACM patient

We use state of the art laser therapy to safely and effectively remove spider veins and broken capillaries on the face, commonly known as telangiectasias.

What are spider veins and broken capillaries?

First and foremost, spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin whilst broken capillaries are a cluster of tiny veins that have become dilated and “broken”, creating the appearance of a reddish bruise.

Although usually harmless, these tiny spider veins and broken capillaries, also known as telangiectasias, can sometimes cause itchiness. More importantly, some people feel that the appearance of spider veins and broken capillaries on the face are unattractive, so they choose to have them removed with laser therapy. Typically this condition occurs on the face, nose, chin, and cheek.

Who gets spider veins and broken capillaries?

The causes of spider veins and broken capillaries are thought to be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both.

According to Healthline.com, possible causes include:

  1. alcoholism: can affect the flow of blood in vessels and can cause liver disease
  2. pregnancy: often applies large amounts of pressure on venules
  3. ageing: ageing blood vessels can begin to weaken
  4. rosacea: enlarges venules in the face, creating a flushed appearance in cheeks and nose
  5. habitual corticosteroid use: thins and weakens the skin
  6. scleroderma: hardens and contracts the skin
  7. dermatomyositis: inflames the skin and underlying muscle tissue
  8. systemic lupus erythematosus: can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and extreme temperatures

When will I see the results from laser therapy?

Some patients will find spider veins and/or broken capillaries have visibly disappeared during their first session. Larger, darker veins, however, will come back lighter in appearance – this is a good indication a subsequent visit is needed. We find 1-3 sessions usually work best, however, results will vary from patient to patient.

Once your desired result has been achieved, we recommend visiting once or twice a year to maintain fresh, brighter looking skin.

Are there any side effects to laser therapy?

It is likely patients will experience temporary redness and minor swelling after treatment to remove spider veins and broken capillaries. This usually settles the same day. We always apply an SPF post-treatment and recommend avoiding the sun for at least 48 hours while your skin heals. There’s not a lot of visible healing but your tissue will still be holding onto a lot of heat from the laser energy itself, so you want to avoid sun exposure and heavy exercise following this treatment.

It’s important to protect your skin during this healing process. Talk to us about the best aftercare for laser therapy following the removal of spider veins and broken capillaries on the face.

Book your consult or appointment online here or call us on 0403 690 031.

NOTE: Results may vary from patient to patient. Please consult your physician and/or healthcare professional to determine if this treatment is right for you.

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