Broken facial capillaries are caused in large part by environmental damage and genetics and can be unsightly and embarrassing. Commonly located on the nose, cheeks and chin they appear as small red vessels under the skin. If left untreated, these vessels will continue to dilate and become more noticeable. Prevention, early treatment and ongoing maintenance yield the best results.
What causes broken facial capillaries?
The most common causes are:
- Environmental - sun exposure and weather extremes
- Age
- Rosacea
- Genetics
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Pregnancy
- Medical conditions such as high blood pressure
- Pressure e.g. squeezing acne or glasses pressing on the face
How are broken facial capillaries treated?
Treatment is as much about repairing the existing damage as it is about prevention of further damage by improving the overall strength and health of your skin. A nurse will have a consultation with you before recommending treatment in order to assess the extent of damage and to give you realistic expectations of what to expect. They do this by using state-of -the-art imaging software that visualises your skin two millimetres below the skin revealing the extent of the blood vessel damage under your skin. From there they can make recommendations and perform any test patches that may be necessary.
As a general rule, the treatment to repair broken capillaries is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). It works by emitting a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the haemoglobin in the vessel. This light is converted to heat and heats up the vessel walls injuring them and causing them to eventually collapse down. The number of IPL treatments required depends on the size of the vessel, the length of time it has been visible, the general health of the skin and any underlying medical causes for the vascular damage. Your nurse will be able to advise you of the estimated number of treatments required at the time of your consultation.
How are further broken facial capillaries prevented?
Obviously, prevention of further damage is determined by the underlying cause. If it is environmental then some lifestyle changes will need to be made such as strict sunscreen use. If the cause is a medical one then further damage may be harder to prevent and a good maintenance regimen should be implemented.
Regardless of the cause however, strengthening the skin and improving it’s overall health will lead to a reduction in vessel breakage and help to maintain the results of the IPL treatments for longer. At Clear Complexions Clinics we put together a treatment and maintenance plan that is individualised for each client. This will include medical grade skincare such as Vitamin A and Vitamin B3, as well as the Omnilux Medical.
If you would like to know more about how we can help you, then click here to book a consultation or to speak to a Clear Complexions Clinic nurse.
