One common concern that many individuals face concerning the skin is the appearance of broken veins. Also known as spider veins or telangiectasias, these can be an aesthetic nuisance and impact self-confidence.
The good news is that advances in medical technology have led to effective treatments for this condition.
Understanding Broken Veins
As the name suggests, these refer to small blood vessels near the surface of the skin that have become dilated or damaged in some way. They appear as red, blue, or purple lines resembling spider legs or tiny broken branches. They commonly occur on the face, legs or other areas exposed to sunlight.
Several factors contribute to the development of broken veins. These include:
- Genetics can make certain individuals more susceptible to broken veins.
- As we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, making it easier for the veins to become visible.
- Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those experienced during pregnancy or menopause, increase the risk of broken veins.
- Prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken the blood vessel walls.
- Any injury or trauma to the skin can cause blood vessels that become visible on the surface.
The primary symptom of broken veins is their visible appearance on the skin. They may also be accompanied by minor discomfort or aching in some cases. They are generally harmless, however, and do not cause any significant medical issues – it’s the look of them that is mainly the problem.
Treatment Options
While broken veins may fade over time, many individuals seek treatment to improve their appearance and regain their confidence. Several treatment options are available, including sclerotherapy and laser skin treatment.
Laser Skin Treatment
This is a highly effective solution for treating broken veins. It’s a non-invasive procedure that involves the use of concentrated light energy to target and eliminate broken veins without damaging the surrounding skin. There are several benefits:
- Laser technology allows for precise targeting of the broken veins, minimizing the impact on surrounding healthy tissue.
- The concentrated light energy effectively destroys the broken veins, leading to a noticeable reduction in their appearance to the naked eye.
- Minimal discomfort is reported by clients and there are few side effects.
- Laser skin treatment is non-surgical and requires no downtime and you can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.
During the laser skin treatment procedure, a handheld device emitting laser energy is passed over the affected areas. The light energy selectively heats the blood vessels, causing them to collapse and eventually fade away. The procedure is relatively quick, depending on the size and number of broken veins being treated.
Some temporary redness or swelling can occur, but it typically subsides within a few days. Results from laser treatment can vary and multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired outcome. Over time, the broken veins will continue to fade, leading to a smoother and more even skin tone.
Broken veins are generally a cosmetic concern for many individuals, affecting their self-esteem. Unsightly veins on the face or other visible parts of the body can accumulate as we age. Laser skin treatment offers a safe and effective solution for reducing the appearance of these.