Facial thread veins or broken red veins (telangiectasia) are small unsightly superficial red, purple or blue veins that occur around the nose and across the cheeks and chin. These broken veins occur when the vein dilates and becomes larger so they are visible through the transparency of the skin. Although facial veins / spider veins are quite common they can cause some distress and embarrassment for those who have them.
Facial veins may be hereditary or as a result of a variety of factors including damage from sun exposure, wind and the extremes of temperature. The over use of steroid creams and certain auto immune conditions may also induce thread veins. Often the exact cause is unknown and may just be part of the natural ageing process or as a part of a skin condition called rosacea.
Facial vessels are effectively treated with Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or laser with minimal downtime or risk in just a few quick, easy treatments.
Treatment is suitable for you if you want to:
- Reduce overall facial redness and reduce blushing
- Be rid of embarrassing broken veins or red spots
- Have clearer, brighter, fresher looking skin
- Suitable for face, neck and chest
FAQs
What does the treatment involve?
Light energy is applied to the skin where it is readily absorbed by blood vessels, heating them to a point where they are destroyed. Following treatment, the vessels quickly clear as they are reabsorbed by the body, leaving little or no trace of the original lesion.
How is the treatment carried out?
The light applicator is placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated. During treatment, protective eyewear will be provided.
Am I suitable for treatment?
Treatment is suitable for most people. Best results are obtained for those with fair skin, and there is less chance of side effects.
How does the treatment feel?
Treatment is mildly uncomfortable but there is no need for anaesthesia and the procedure is actually quite quick. Sensations vary but most describe it as a very quick hot pin prick.
Are there any side effects?
After treatment the area may feel warm for a few hours. Rarely, some delicate skin areas such as the cheeks or décolleté can be red and slightly swollen for up to 48 hours. Though very rare, there is a chance a small blister may form and there could be temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.
Which types of veins can be treated?
Most red skin lesions, including facial thread veins, rosacea, spider naevi, and port wine stains, can be treated very successfully. Depending on the lesions, leg vessels can also respond well to treatment.
How many treatments are necessary?
Typically 3 to 5 treatments are needed for optimum results, though small lesions may clear in just a single session. Repeat treatments are spaced every 4 to 6 weeks.
Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.
Pricing
Courses of 3 sessions are recommended for the most effective results.
Single Lesion 30 mins £75.00
Course of 3 sessions Single Lesion £195.00
Cheeks 30 mins £100.00
Course of 3 sessions Cheeks £255.00
Hands 30 mins £150.00
Course of 3 sessions Hands £380.00
Cheeks and Nose 45 mins £150.00
Course of 3 sessions Cheeks and Nose £380.00
Half Face 45 mins £180.00
Course of 3 sessions Half Face £460.00
Chest only 45 mins £180.00
Course of 3 sessions Chest only £460.00
Full Face 60 mins £200.00
Course of 3 sessions Full Face £510.00
Full Face and Neck 75 mins £250.00
Course of 3 sessions Full Face and Neck £640.00
Full Face, Neck and Chest 90 mins £300.00
Course of 3 sessions Full Face, Neck and Chest £765.00
Facial thread veins or broken red veins (telangiectasia) are small unsightly superficial red, purple or blue veins that occur around the nose and across the cheeks and chin. These broken veins occur when the vein dilates and becomes larger so they are visible through the transparency of the skin. Although facial veins / spider veins are quite common they can cause some distress and embarrassment for those who have them.