April 5, 2018
Getting the Red Out: Addressing the Appearance of Broken Blood Vessels 
Your Health and Safety is our Priority. Learn more about our COVID-19 Safety Protocols
Fill in the form to get in touch.
Broken blood vessels are visible enlarged blood vessels that appear on the face and other parts of the body. They are fine, red veins that are commonly located on the nose, chin, or cheeks. These vessels usually appear as a result of aging, pregnancy, childbirth, birth control pills, estrogen replacement therapy, sun damage, and Rosacea.
Vascular lesions may be acquired or arise directly after birth. Vascular lesions that arise after birth are birth marks. Birth marks and other vascular lesions are the effect of an alteration in size and form of multiple blood vessels. While vascular lesions are displeasing in appearance, they have no effect on normal bodily function. They become problematic because they grow in proportion to total body growth. Some physicians treat vascular lesions to prevent spreading, or to make them less noticeable. Other physicians chose not to treat the lesions unless they cause functional problems.
Laser treatment is the most effective treatment for broken blood vessels. The visible blood vessels are removed by light absorbed by the blood that destroys the vessel. After some time, the vessel disappears restoring the skin’s natural appearance. Lasers allow for quick treatment of broken blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin. Topical anesthesia or ice may be applied to vessel prior to laser treatment for maximum comfort. Lasers are safe, producing gradual results. Large veins may require multiple treatments for improvement, not full repair. Small veins require a single treatment for repair. Laser treatment has very few side effects. Temporary discoloration of the affected skin may result from treatments. This discoloration can last anywhere from 5-14 days depending on the location, and size of the vessel being treated. Blistering, crusting, or redness of the skin may also occur but clear within a few days. The use of sunscreen on the treated area is recommended for optimum results.
In any case, the best treatment for vascular lesions is laser treatment which is highly dependent on the location, extent, and rate of growth of the lesion. The lesions are removed by light absorbed by the blood that destroys the vessel. After some time, the vessel disappears restoring the skin’s natural appearance. Lasers allow for quick treatment of vascular lesions without damaging the surrounding skin. Topical anesthesia or ice may be applied to the lesion prior to laser treatment for maximum comfort. Lasers are safe, producing gradual results. Large lesions may require multiple treatments for full repair, but in most cases a single treatment will suffice. Laser treatment has very few side effects. Temporary discoloration of the affected skin may result from treatments. This discoloration can last anywhere from 5-14 days depending on the location, size, and type of lesion being treated. The use of sunscreen on the treated area is recommended for optimum results.
The laser treatment is performed in the comfort of one of our New York or New Jersey offices using a handheld device that our specialists can manipulate and maneuver to target any imperfections in the skin. The laser uses light to penetrate through the outer layers of the skin without destroying the top dermal layer. The treatment is completely safe and relatively non-invasive as it works entirely over the surface of the skin.
Broken blood vessels can form along the face and body for a number of reasons. Some patients may be genetically prone to experiencing them but sometimes they occur because of UV damage from exposure to the sun, weather changes, pregnancy, excessive smoking or drinking, and trauma/disturbance to the skin.
Most times, broken blood vessels are no more than a visual imperfection that patients want removed for cosmetic reasons. They pose no medical harm, can be covered up by makeup, and are a relatively common occurrence in patients who are under the sun a lot. In some cases, although rare, broken blood vessels may be a sign of an underlying condition. The board-certified dermatologists and physician assistants at Advanced Dermatology will work with you directly to understand what is causing your broken blood vessels. With multiple locations in NY and NJ, you can make an appointment at the office most convenient to you to start receiving treatment and get recommendations for preventative measures.
With 50+ locations conveniently located throughout New York City and New Jersey, a top-rated dermatologist is just around the corner. Click below to find the office nearest you!
FOR MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS CALL 888-747-5273
Receive skincare tips, news and special offers!
This will close in 0 seconds