Broken Capillaries and facial capillaries

Many people are troubled by unsightly blood vessels on their skin.  These so called vascular blemishes are very common and tend to respond well to treatment by medical lasers.  The range of blood vessel problems that concern patients is enormous.

One of the commonest conditions is Facial Capillaries which are medically known as Telangiectasia.  These are fine red capillaries on the face, especially the cheek and nose.  Also called “broken” capillaries this condition responds extremely well to laser treatment.  Another problem frequently treated is Spider Veins.  These occur as a result of pressure from underlying vessels which cause prominent veins on the skins surface.  They commonly occur on the side of the nose.

What type of Laser is used?

The Vascular Laser which is a safe and reliable laser system that has been used extensively in medical practice.  The Cosmetic and Laser Medical Centre uses several Vascular Laser Systems which are all advanced medical Laser systems that can target blood vessels without breaking the surface of the skin.  The choice of which laser is most appropriate will depend on your particular problem and skin type.

How does the Vascular Laser work?

Vascular Lasers work by producing a light beam that is strongly attracted to the red colour of the blood vessels. More specifically the component of blood cells that carries oxygen (oxyhaemoglobin) attracts the laser light. When you concentrate light you get heat and when you get enough heat you can seal off the unwanted blood vessels.  Because the laser light is preferentially absorbed within the blood vessels the treatment is both very effective and results in only minimal heating to the overlying skin.

Does it hurt?

As the Laser produces a concentrated light beam it can be felt on the skins surface, however most patients find this quite tolerable.  For individuals with very sensitive skin local anaesthetic cream or injection can be used if necessary.

How many treatments are necessary?

This will depend on the type and extent of the problem.  Most facial capillaries respond very quickly and may only require one treatment.  For patients who have a tendency to develop further broken capillaries, follow up treatments in the future may be necessary.  In this regard the use of measures such as appropriate sunblock can help prevent or at least slow the rate of recurrence.