Treatment for Facial Telangiectasia

Telangiectasia is a medical term for small red veins which are commonly known to as red veins, dilated capillaries or broken veins. Facial Telangiectasia arise mainly from capillaries which are over dilated and sit on the upper layers of the dermis.They occur mainly on the face, particularly around the nose, cheeks and chin and respond well to short wave diathermy.

This type of treatment can result in complete removal or a significant improvement in their appearance depending on ether the cause or the lifestyle of the patient. Short wave diathermy works by heating the blood in the capillary via an electrical current. This leads to the obliteration of the vessel.

Causes and aggravating factors:

• Heredity – family history. Our patients often refer to family members having the problem.

• Environment – this condition is common in people frequently exposed to sun, wind or extremes of heat or cold.

• Injury – a knock can damage superficial vessels

• Medication – some drugs e.g steroids and long term use of retinols can lead to telangiectasia.

• Respiratory problems – impaired oxygen can lead to the appearance or reddish, bluish capillaries.

• Pregnancy – usually these problems resolve spontaneously.

• Smoking as it reduces oxygen supply to the skin and damages collagen.

Prior to treatment the skin type is assessed. Skin care products may be advised prior to the procedure.

Post procedure skin care products are also advised and patients encouraged to use SPF sunscreen on a daily basis.

The treatment process

The treatment involves a fine hair sized needle, which is applied to the dilated capillary. It can be uncomfortable so a local anesthetic cream is applied prior to the procedure.

An appointment is made for the client to return for a review four weeks after the treatment. It may take one two or three treatments for the veins to disappear completely.