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Broken capillaries are a common cosmetic condition that troubles many people. These vascular blemishes do, fortunately, respond well to laser treatment. There is an extensive range of blood vessel problems that can affect people.

One of the most common of vascular blemishes is facial capillaries which are known in the medical world as telangiectasia. These are characterized by fine, red marks on the face, particularly around the nose and cheek. These respond very well to laser treatment. Spider veins are another common type of vascular blemish. These are caused by high pressure of underlying vessels which cause overly prominent veins on the skin’s surface.

What Type of Laser Treatment is Used?

A so called vascular laser is used for the treatment of broken capillaries. These types of laser have been extensively used and tested in medical practice over many years. The Cosmetic and Laser Medical Centres have a selection of vascular laser systems which use advanced medical lasers to target blood vessels without having to break through the surface of the skin. The particular type of laser used depends on the patient’s particular skin type and condition.

How Does the Vascular Laser Work?

A vascular laser works by focusing a beam of light which is attracted to the red colour of the blood vessels. The component in the blood cells, oxyhaemoglobin, which carries the oxygen attracts the laser light. When this light is concentrated, the heat generated seals off the unwanted blood vessels. The treatment normally only requires minimal heating of the overlying skin to provide effective results.

Is the Treatment Painful?

The concentrated beam of light can be felt on the skin’s surface but few patients find it painful. There are some patients with very sensitive skin, however, in which a local anaesthetic injection or cream may be used.

How Many Treatments are Required?

The number of treatments required depend on the specific condition of the individual and the level of improvement required. Facial capillaries are often treated quickly and sometimes only require a single treatment. For those who often develop further broken capillaries, future treatments. Using appropriate sunblock can help to lessen the risk of developing broken capillaries in the future.