How can I get rid of broken capillaries?

Our skin holds tiny blood vessels (capillaries), which run close to the surface of the skin. These capillaries are also known as spider vein, broken capillaries or telangiectasia. As we age the capillary walls lose their elasticity and can become permanently swollen so that they are damaged and become visible, especially in fairer skins.

What causes broken capillaries?

There are several causes including: ageing, sun damage, hereditary, pregnancy, the rubbing of spectacles, temperature extremes, hormones and skin fragility. These types of veins can be successfully treated using light therapies.

Simple methods to get rid of broken capillaries

Immediate coverage

It’s difficult to cover veins effectively even with make up, mineral make up can offer a good cover and you can use a primer underneath your foundation such as Face primer SPF 20 by Daniel Sandler.

Diet and lifestyle

There are certain steps that you can take to help to reduce existing veins and protect from further problems.

Avoid Spicy foods, these cause blood vessels to dilate further.

Avoid stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes. Alcohol and cigarettes are commonly linked with broken capillaries.

Take care not to go from extreme cold to hot temperatures.

Collagen Shots has been found to reduce the severity as it strengthens connective tissue and acai berry is believed to increase the strength of vascular walls.

H3O Hydration and H3O Night Repair both contain powerful anti-inflammatories linked to vascular health and are excellent for hydration levels.

Skincare

• Cosmedix
• NCN
• Obagi

Treatments for broken veins

We advise a thorough consultation before any treatment.

Sclerotherapy 

Individual veins can be treated by inserting a fine needle into the vein and a short pulse cauterizes the capillary.

Light based treatments

IPL and Laser, light from these systems targets red skin cells and blood capillaries. By exposing vascular lesions to the short pulses of light the heat coagulates the broken blood vessels, which are dispersed naturally by the body. This treatment is painful for a short time but the down time should be minimal.

IPL gives good reduction in general redness and can be successful with individual broken capillaries.

Laser is good at targeting individual capillaries.

Suggested equipment Zeo Light IPL and Harmony Laser. The pictures supplied are courtesy of Medispa S10 in Sheffield and Harmony Laser.

LED, Light Emitting Diode, not the sort that are in your average house bulbs. These lights are specially designed to create chemical reactions within the skin tissue. The great thing is they are pain free and a series or treatments can reduce redness and inflammation. Results continue to improve over a 6-month period. Suggested equipment Hydradermie.

Collagen Shots

Discover the benefits of drinking collagen for beautiful skin. High strength award winning Collagen Shots drink with skin firming antioxidants and vitamins.