Broken capillaries, also called “spider veins,” are tiny blood vessels that become visible on the skin’s surface. They often appear as reddish-purple lines on the cheeks or face. If you’ve ever noticed these after a long day or felt like they seem to appear more over time, you’re not alone. Let’s find out the causes and ways to get rid of them.
What Do Broken Capillaries Look Like?
Broken capillaries on the face, also called telangiectasias, are tiny red lines or clusters of red marks visible under the skin. They often look like thin, spidery veins and can make the skin appear red or uneven, especially around the nose, cheeks, and chin.
They are harmless, but they can be a cosmetic concern, giving the skin an aged or weathered look. These capillaries can range in size and may look like small red dots or thin lines spread across the area.
Causes Behind Broken Capillaries
Broken capillaries can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin type, but certain factors make them more likely. Here are six common causes of broken capillaries on the face or chest:
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Genetics
If your family members, like parents or grandparents, have broken capillaries, you might be more likely to develop them, too. Some people naturally have weaker blood vessels, which can also make spider or varicose veins on the legs more common.
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Sun Damage
Too much sun exposure can harm your skin in many ways. It can weaken blood vessel walls, causing them to expand permanently, leading to broken capillaries. Sunlight can also bring blood vessels closer to the skin’s surface, making them more noticeable.
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Rosacea
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that causes redness, swelling, and small bumps on the nose, cheeks, and forehead. It can also make the veins around these areas more visible and prone to breaking. Managing rosacea can help reduce redness.
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Lifestyle Habits
Drinking alcohol causes blood vessels to expand, increasing the risk of broken capillaries. Smoking can inflame veins, leading to similar issues.
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Skin Trauma
Skin injuries can cause broken capillaries. Harsh treatments, picking at your skin, or squeezing blemishes can damage blood vessels and lead to this condition.
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Aging
As you get older, your skin becomes thinner and loses collagen, which keeps it strong and elastic. This makes the skin more delicate and prone to visible veins and trauma.
How to Treat Broken Capillaries on the Face?
There are several ways to treat or reduce the appearance of broken capillaries. If you’re concerned about them, consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist to discuss a treatment plan. Options may include:
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Laser Treatments
Lasers can help reduce or remove small areas of broken veins. They use energy waves to target the veins and stop blood flow, causing the capillaries to gradually fade. Multiple sessions may be needed for the best results.
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Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
Also called a photo facial, IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target broken capillaries and other skin issues. The light heats the capillaries, breaking them down. After a few days, the veins are absorbed by the skin. Depending on how severe the condition is, you may need several sessions.
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Topical Creams
While creams can’t remove broken capillaries, they can reduce their appearance. Vitamin K creams help with redness, and retinol creams boost collagen to improve skin texture. Ask a skin care professional for recommendations.
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Sclerotherapy
This treatment is mainly for larger spider veins or varicose veins in the legs. A dermatologist injects a solution into the vein, causing it to collapse and be absorbed by the body.
Closing Note
Broken capillaries on the face can be a serious concern for many people. However, there are multiple tried & tested treatments to get rid of them.
Visit our family medicine expert at Vital Clinic & Spa. Our team provides various treatments to enhance your beauty and lifestyle. Dial (832) 533-8404 to book an appointment.