Understanding Telangiectasias (Broken Capillaries) Causes, Triggers & Treatments.
At The Clinic Skin Health & Wellness, one of the most common concerns clients bring to us is the appearance of tiny red or purple lines across their cheeks, nose, or chin. These are called telangiectasias, more commonly known as broken capillaries. While harmless, they can cause cosmetic frustration and impact confidence. Let’s explore what they are, why they form, and the most effective treatment options available.
What Are Telangiectasias?
Telangiectasias are dilated small blood vessels that become visible just beneath the surface of the skin. They often look like fine red lines, spider webs, or a flushed patch, and are most commonly found on the face, especially around the nose and cheeks.
They are not usually a sign of a serious medical condition, but they can signal underlying skin sensitivity, chronic redness, or conditions such as rosacea.
Common Causes & Triggers
Several factors can contribute to the development of telangiectasias:
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Sun exposure: UV damage weakens blood vessel walls, making them more visible.
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Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to visible capillaries.
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Skin conditions: Chronic inflammatory conditions like rosacea increase risk.
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Environmental factors: Wind, cold weather, and sudden temperature changes can dilate blood vessels.
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Lifestyle factors: Alcohol consumption, spicy foods, hot showers, and smoking may trigger flare-ups.
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Ageing: As skin thins with age, vessels become more noticeable.
Understanding these triggers is the first step in managing and preventing future occurrences.
Treatment Options at The Clinic
At The Clinic Skin Health & Wellness, we offer evidence-based treatments that directly target telangiectasias (broken capillaries) for clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Vascular Laser
Why: The vascular laser specifically targets the red and purple pigments in broken blood vessels.
How it helps: The light energy is absorbed by the visible vessels, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. This provides immediate improvement in redness and visibly clears the broken capillaries without harming surrounding skin.
Laser Genesis
Why: Laser Genesis is a non-invasive treatment that gently heats the dermis, stimulating collagen production and improving overall skin tone.
How it helps: By boosting collagen and strengthening the skin structure, Laser Genesis reduces the visibility of broken capillaries and redness over time. It also improves texture, shrinks pore size, and creates a more even complexion.
LED Light Therapy
Why: LED therapy is a gentle yet powerful way to calm inflammation and support skin healing.
How it helps: Red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrate the skin to reduce redness, repair damaged vessels, and strengthen the skin barrier. This therapy also works synergistically with laser treatments to accelerate recovery and improve long-term results.
Can Telangiectasias Be Prevented?
While not all broken capillaries can be avoided, you can reduce your risk by:
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Wearing broad-spectrum SPF daily.
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Avoiding extreme temperatures and harsh scrubs.
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Limiting alcohol and spicy foods.
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Using gentle, barrier-supporting skincare.
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Booking regular professional treatments to maintain skin strength and resilience.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you notice sudden widespread telangiectasias, or if redness is accompanied by stinging, bumps, or swelling, it may be linked to rosacea or another inflammatory condition. A professional skin consultation can help identify the root cause and the best treatment pathway.
Final Thoughts
Telangiectasias are a common skin concern, but you don’t need to live with them. At The Clinic Skin Health & Wellness, we combine advanced technology with personalised skin health plans to deliver visible results and long-term skin strength.
✨ Ready to address broken capillaries and restore your confidence? Book your consultation today and let our expert team design the right plan for you.