Broken blood vessels can be an unfortunate and unsightly part of aging. They’re especially unsightly when found on the face. Telangiectasia Rosacea, or broken blood vessels on the face, are tiny capillaries near the surface of the skin that break due to over-dilation. The broken capillaries will cause dark spots that can make the face look even more aged or even bruised.
What Causes Broken Blood Vessels on the Face?
Blood vessels are incredibly thin, so they’re easily broken. This means that almost any impact can cause a vessel to break. Broken blood vessels on the face can be caused by rinsing with extremely hot water, scrubbing the face roughly, or using an abrasive exfoliator. Increased blood pressure is also a common cause of broken blood vessels. Estrogen therapy, pregnancy and birth control pills can create softening of the vessel walls leading to dilation, leading to increased capillary breaking.
Alcohol increases blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of broken blood vessels. Long term alcohol use or abuse makes this risk even higher, as the veins will continually dilate over time until they break. The UV rays of sunlight cause photo damage, red spots and broken vessels. And, in addition to all of these potential causes, age contributes to the risk of broken capillaries.
How To Prevent or Minimize the Risk of Broken Blood Vessels on the Face
It’s actually impossible to prevent broken blood vessels, but it is possible to greatly minimize the risk. There are several effective ways to avoid broken capillaries:
- Using preferably physical blocking sunscreens as recommended by health professionals on the face particularly around the cheeks and eyes, as veins on the face are the most fragile in these areas.
- Washing the face gently, with warm water and cleansers, and then applying effective hydrators.
- Only bathing or showering in warm water – not hot water. Hot steam from the shower or bath can cause vein dilation and damage over a long period of time.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption.
How To Manage or Treat Broken Blood Vessels
Laser vein treatment (IPL) is the most common and successful treatment for broken vessels. The laser coagulates the damaged vessels and the body’s defense system absorbs the residual. The skin may be reddened for a short time after the treatment, but there is no downtime. The skin can be protected with a water based foundation such as Jane Iredale or Glo. Keep in mind that this is a treatment and can only be performed by a licensed physician.
If you would like to learn more about vein removal, call our clinic, Laser and Skin Care MedSpa, to book a free assessment and treatment plan 403- 347-8050.