What Are Broken Vessels & Facial Veins?
Broken vessels, medically referred to as telangiectasia, are small, dilated blood vessels that become visible near the surface of the skin. They commonly appear on the face, particularly around the nose, cheeks, and chin, presenting as thin red, blue, or purple lines or web-like patterns. While generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for many individuals.
Common Signs and Symptoms:
The primary sign of broken vessels is the appearance of fine, thread-like lines on the skin, which may:
Be red, blue, or purple in color.
Occur individually or in clusters, creating a web-like pattern.
Be accompanied by facial redness or flushing, especially in conditions like rosacea.
These vessels are typically painless but can cause cosmetic concerns due to their visibility.
Possible Causes of Broken Vessels & Facial Veins:
Several factors can contribute to the development of broken vessels and facial veins:
Genetics: A family history of telangiectasia increases susceptibility.
Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin and cause blood vessels to dilate.
Aging: As skin ages, it becomes thinner, making underlying blood vessels more noticeable.
Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption and smoking can contribute to the development of broken vessels.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like rosacea increase the likelihood of developing visible facial veins.
Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures and wind exposure can cause blood vessels to expand and become more prominent.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause can contribute to the development of facial veins.
What are Some Possible Treatments Available?
At Summerlin Dermatology, we offer several effective treatments to reduce the appearance of broken vessels and facial veins:
Laser Therapy: Cutera excel® V Laser precisely targets and reduces visible veins.
Venus Versa™ Laser: Helps minimize redness and improves skin clarity.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Employs broad-spectrum light to heat and destroy visible blood vessels, promoting clearer skin.
Sclerotherapy: Involves injecting a solution into the affected vessels, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.
Topical Treatments: Certain creams can temporarily constrict blood vessels, reducing the visibility of facial veins and improving overall skin appearance.
Prevention Tips
To minimize the risk of developing broken vessels:
Sun Protection: Regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Gentle Skincare: Avoid harsh facial treatments and products that can irritate the skin.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of blood vessel dilation.
Protect Against Extreme Temperatures: Shield your skin from extreme cold and heat to prevent blood vessel damage.
Related Treatments
We're Here to Help
If you're concerned about broken vessels or facial veins, the experienced team at Summerlin Dermatology is here to help. We offer personalized treatment plans to effectively address these concerns and enhance your skin's appearance.
Contact us today at 702-243-4501 or Request an Appointment online.

Broken Vessels & Facial Veins
Treatment for Broken Vessels & Facial Veins
Broken vessels, also known as facial veins or telangiectasia, are small, dilated blood vessels visible near the skin’s surface, often appearing as thin red, blue, or purple lines. At Summerlin Dermatology, we offer advanced treatments to effectively reduce their appearance, helping you achieve clearer, more even-toned skin.