11 Ways to Treat Broken Capillaries on the Face, According to Dermatologists

Broken capillaries, also known as spider veins or telangiectasias, are small, dilated blood vessels that appear as red or purple lines on the skin, most commonly on the face. While generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for many. Fortunately, several effective treatments can help minimize their appearance. We consulted with dermatologists to bring you 11 proven methods.

1. Understanding Broken Capillaries

Before diving into treatments, it's important to understand the causes. Factors like genetics, sun exposure, aging, rosacea, trauma, and even changes in weather can contribute to the development of broken capillaries. Protecting your skin from these triggers is crucial for both prevention and management.

2. Sun Protection is Key

Sun exposure is a major culprit. Dermatologists universally recommend daily sunscreen use with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're outdoors. Consider wearing hats and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

3. Topical Vitamin C Serums

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help strengthen blood vessel walls and improve skin elasticity. Applying a topical Vitamin C serum daily can help reduce the appearance of existing broken capillaries and prevent new ones from forming.

4. Retinoids for Skin Renewal

Retinoids promote cell turnover and collagen production, which can improve skin texture and minimize the appearance of broken capillaries over time. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as tolerated to avoid irritation.

5. Laser Therapy: A Gold Standard

Laser therapy is a highly effective treatment for broken capillaries. Lasers target the blood vessels, causing them to collapse and eventually fade away. Different types of lasers, such as pulsed dye lasers (PDL) and Nd:YAG lasers, can be used depending on the size and location of the capillaries.

6. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL is another light-based treatment that can improve the appearance of broken capillaries, along with other skin concerns like sun damage and age spots. IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target the blood vessels and reduce their visibility.

7. Sclerotherapy for Larger Vessels

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the broken capillaries, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. This treatment is typically used for larger spider veins, often on the legs, but can sometimes be used on the face in specific cases.

8. Gentle Skincare Routine

Avoid harsh scrubs, abrasive cleansers, and excessive rubbing, as these can irritate the skin and worsen broken capillaries. Opt for gentle, non-irritating skincare products.

9. Manage Rosacea, If Present

Rosacea is a common skin condition that can cause broken capillaries on the face. If you have rosacea, managing the condition with prescribed medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce the appearance of these vessels.

10. Consider Compression Therapy (Limited Facial Use)

While primarily used for leg veins, very gentle facial massage techniques can potentially improve circulation and reduce the appearance of broken capillaries. Consult with a dermatologist or qualified aesthetician before attempting this.

11. Camouflage with Makeup

While not a treatment, using a color-correcting concealer (often green-tinted) can effectively camouflage broken capillaries. Check out this product! This provides immediate coverage while you explore longer-term treatment options.

Important Note: It's always best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan. They can determine the underlying cause of your broken capillaries and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific skin type and condition. Check out this product!