Facial Spider Veins

The face is the most exposed part of our body. This is why any skin imperfection can be easily observed and represents an embarrassing issue. One of the frequent skin issues affecting this area are spider veins on face, medically known as telangiectasias. These are dilated blood vessels mostly distributed on the nose and cheeks, resembling a spider’s web.

 

The source of facial spider veins

There are many reasons why spider veins on face occur. In the majority of cases damage to the affected blood vessels is closely connected with venous hypertension and back flow of oxygen-depleted blood. Under normal circumstances one-way valves in veins prevent such backflow. However, if there is any malfunction, the blood pools and triggers venous dilation.

Furthermore, spider veins on face are associated with other medical conditions such as acne rosacea or develop as a consequence of excessive exposure to sun or extreme cold. Radiation exposure is yet another explanation why one may end up with these skin imperfections. Hereditary factors along with hormonal imbalances may contribute to the condition as well. All in all, women seem to be affected more.

 

Removing spider veins

When it comes to treatment there are several options available. The goal is to remove abnormal blood vessels and avoid scaring at the same time. This is why sclerotherapy, even though it is highly efficient in eliminating spider veins, is only used in case of larger spider veins. Smaller spider veins on face respond well to laser treatment, electrodesiccation and intense pulse light.

Lasers successfully remove small and medium spider veins on face. The laser beam triggers coagulation, which subsequently shrinks the affected blood vessel, making it less visible. Immediately after the treatment the skin shows signs of hyperpigmentation but dark patches fade away within two to six weeks after the treatment.

The second approach, electrodesiccation is based on electric current delivered to the skin afflicted with spider veins. The effects of such procedure are swelling and shutting of the veins. Eventually, the veins shrink and become almost completely invisible or vanish for good. One of the side effects of electrodesiccation is scarring so it is best to be performed by a medical expert only.

And finally, for deeper spider veins on face it is best to apply intense pulse light treatment. The procedure includes exposure of the affected skin to light of specific energy which penetrates the skin and is eventually absorbed by dilated blood vessels. As a result, the veins shrink and the overall appearance of the skin improves.

Even though the aforementioned approaches can be suitable for all skin types their efficacy ranges from 60-90%. In rare cases the treated skin suffers permanent discoloration while bruising and inflammation represent only temporary side effects. Unfortunately, the condition is sometimes recurrent, especially if the underlying causes are not eliminated.