What Visible Capillaries Mean

Visible capillaries are thin blood vessels that appear on the skin’s surface as reddish or bluish lines/spots. They often occur on the cheeks, nose, or legs (though the latter is more related to varicose veins). On the face, they are also known as spider veins or couperose capillaries. These occur when blood vessels expand and remain permanently dilated or their walls become damaged, causing blood to show through.

Why capillaries burst or expand

  • Sun damage: UV radiation weakens the walls of capillaries. Over the years, the sun can cause small blood vessels to dilate and rupture, especially on the cheekbones and nose.
  • Rosacea and porpoise: As mentioned earlier, rosacea promotes the formation of dilated capillaries – chronic inflammation and blood vessel dilation leave the superficial veins visible.
  • Temperature and trauma: Extreme cold and heat (sauna, windy frost) cause blood vessels to work excessively, which can damage them over time. Additionally, intense rubbing or injury to the face can rupture some capillaries.
  • Genes and age: Some people have a genetic predisposition to thin skin and fragile blood vessels. As they age, the skin becomes thinner and the blood vessels become more visible.

How to treat visible capillaries

  • Laser and IPL treatment: The most effective way to remove visible capillaries is laser treatment. The laser directs heat energy into the blood vessel, causing it to contract or close – this is how the red lines gradually disappear. Removal of blood vessels by laser IPL-based light therapy is popular because results are quick and there is no risk of scarring.
  • Creams and other methods: There are also creams on the market that strengthen blood vessels (containing e.g. vitamin K or arnica), but their effect on the disappearance of capillaries is limited. These rather help prevent the formation of new ones or slightly reduce redness, but they do not remove an existing ‘broken’ capillary with a cream.
  • After the procedure: After the laser procedure, it is important to protect the skin from the sun and follow the doctor’s instructions (e.g., use a soothing cream). Typically, 1-3 sessions are required, depending on the number and size of the capillaries.

Prevention: How to prevent the formation of new capillaries

  • Sunscreen: Daily SPF use and avoiding the sun helps protect capillaries. Sunglasses also protect the delicate skin around the eyes.
  • Gentle skin care: Avoid using harsh scrubs on your face and avoid squeezing pimples – mechanical trauma can affect the superficial blood vessels. Be gentle when washing and use lukewarm water.
  • Lifestyle: Avoid very hot saunas and do not use cold water on your face if you are prone to rosacea. Alcohol (especially red wine) dilates blood vessels – consume it in moderation.

If you are bothered by visible capillaries or red ‘spiderwebs’ on your face, there is a solution. Agree on time our clinic for vascular IPL laser therapy or  For chemical peeling – we help your skin regain an even complexion, without red lines and spots.