Dilated capillaries and erythema
Dilated blood vessels on the face are called telangiectasias or “spider veins” and it is a common problem in many patients. It is not only an aesthetic problem. It should not be underestimated as it may indicate problems with the circulatory system and lead to the development of acne rosacea. Most dilated capillaries are located in the area of the nose, chin, cheeks and neckline.
Factors that predispose to the appearance of telangiectasia on the face are: genetic factors, hormonal factors (estrogen in contraceptives), internal factors (allergic diseases, chronic dermatitis), external factors (sun exposure, sun bed use, wind, large temperature fluctuations, high humidity, use of topical steroids).
At mClinic we perform vascular closure treatment on the face with the Dye-Vl head, which is great for indications such as: dilated capillaries, erythema, ruby hemangiomas, flat angiomas, stellate angiomas, rosacea, enlarged pores. 1-6 treatments are needed depending on the severity of the problem. The patient can return to their normal activity right after the procedure – the skin may be slightly swollen or reddened, it is recommended to cool it with cold packs.
In addition to the procedure itself, it is worth taking care of the skin with dilated capillaries on the face. Proper care should consist of:
- adequate photoprotection (year-round use of creams with UVB and UVA filters, as well as with the IR filter protecting against infrared radiation)
- protecting the skin against cold – the use of greasier protective creams in autumn and winter
- avoiding saunas
- supplementation of vitamin deficiencies mainly B2, PP, C
Using appropriate dermocosmetics for vascular skin – a very effective ingredient that strengthens the walls of blood vessels is vitamin K.
Erythema is one of the most common skin problems that patients report at the dermatologists office. It may occur as a result of emotional stress, allergies, overheating, and may also be a sign of chronic dermatoses. The erythema located on the cheeks, chin, forehead is often a symptom of rosacea. It may be an isolated symptom or it may coexist with papules and pustules. The erythema is a network of tiny blood vessels located shallowly in the skin. The vessels are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye – we only see a “rush” of redness of the skin. The erythema may be paroxysmal or permanent. Paroxysmal erythema (called flushing)-appears and disappears under the influence of external factors such as- temperature change, exposure to the sun, sauna, wind, frost, hot bath, emotional stress, red wine, hot, spicy food. Over time, erythema begins to be an established symptom on the face. It does not disappear as easily as it appeared once the triggering factor ceases. Persistent facial erythema most often coexists with dilated vessels, the so-called telangiectasias, which are typically found in the nose and chin area. In late stages, symptoms such as burning and dryness of the skin and skin swelling are added. Intolerance to cosmetics may occur. There is currently no effective pharmacological treatment for the redness and paroxysmal erythema associated with rosacea. It can occur as a result of emotional stress, allergies, overheating, but is also often times a sign of medical conditions.
In conjunction with the pathogenesis of rosacea, the need to avoid certain factors known to cause rosacea is called for. These include certain foods (liver, yogurt, cream, cheese, eggplant, tomatoes, spinach, peas, some beans, bananas, red plums, raisins, citrus, chocolate, vanilla, soy sauce, vinegar, yeast, hot and spicy foods, red wine, beer, bourbon, gin, vodka, champagne), sun, strong wind, cold, high humidity, high temperature, vasodilators, glucocorticosteroids for external application, exhausting and prolonged physical exercises, cosmetics and hair sprays based on alcohol, numerous fragrances, acetone and others.