Broken capillaries, also known as Telangiectadia, are small, visible dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin. These are completely normal and very common, often found on cheeks, chin and nose.
While they are generally harmless, many clients find them frustrating and look for ways to reduce their appearance. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional medical dermtologist.
Possible Triggers and Causes
Broken capillaries can result from a variety of factors, but here are some common causes:
Environmental Stress: Exposure to extreme temperatures, wind, or sun can damage delicate facial blood vessels.
Skin Trauma: Vigorous rubbing, squeezing, or harsh treatments can cause capillaries to rupture.
Genetics: Some clients may be predisposed to broken capillaries due to family history.
Age: As skin thins with age, capillaries become more visible and vulnerable to damage.
Lifestyle Factors: Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and poor diet can weaken blood vessels.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like rosacea and hormonal imbalances can exacerbate the issue.
Prevention
Broken capillaries cannot always be prevented, but the following steps can help protect the skin:
Gentle Skincare: Use gentle cleansers and avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants.
Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen daily with at least SPF 30 to shield the skin from UV damage.
Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a balanced diet, limit alcohol intake, and quit smoking to support vascular health.
Manage Temperature Exposure: Avoid using hot water on the face and protect your skin in extreme weather conditions.
Treatment Management Options
While broken capillaries cannot repair themselves naturally, they can be effectively removed through medical-grade treatments performed my a medical dermatologist.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and vascular lasers are the most effective options, targeting and breaking down the visible blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin.
Sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a solution into the vessels, is another advanced option for more severe cases.
Using products with barrier-repairing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides can strengthen the skin, while anti-inflammatory agents such as green tea and chamomile help soothe redness. Vitamin C serums are also effective in boosting collagen production and improving overall skin health. While these ingredients will not completely resolve or remove broken capillaries, they can strengthen the skin and reduce irritation.
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/telangiectasia