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Broken Capillaries (Telangiectasia)

Broken capillaries—also known as telangiectasia—are small, visible blood vessels that appear near the surface of the skin. They commonly show up as fine red, pink, or purple lines and are most often seen on the face and legs. While harmless, broken capillaries do not resolve on their own and may become more noticeable over time without treatment.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS / SYMPTOMS

  • Thin red, pink, or purple lines or web-like patterns
  • Flat and non-painful in most cases
  • May worsen with heat, alcohol, sun exposure, or flushing
  • Common locations include the nose, cheeks, chin, legs, and chest
  • Often associated with rosacea or sensitive skin

CAUSES & PREVENTION

Common causes include:

  • Genetics and naturally fragile blood vessels
  • Chronic sun exposure
  • Rosacea or frequent facial flushing
  • Hormonal changes
  • Aging and thinning skin
  • Trauma, pressure, or temperature extremes

Prevention strategies:

  • Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use
  • Gentle skincare and avoidance of harsh exfoliation
  • Managing rosacea and flushing triggers
  • Avoiding excessive heat (hot showers, saunas) when possible

TREATMENT PROCEDURE

Do broken capillaries need to be treated?

Treatment is not medically required, as broken capillaries are benign. However, many patients choose treatment for cosmetic reasons or because vessels continue to enlarge or multiply over time. Medical evaluation is recommended to rule out underlying conditions and determine the safest treatment approach.
What does the procedure involve, and is it painful?

Treatment is not medically required, as broken capillaries are benign. However, many patients choose treatment for cosmetic reasons or because vessels continue to enlarge or multiply over time. Medical evaluation is recommended to rule out underlying conditions and determine the safest treatment approach.

What does the procedure involve, and is it painful?

Laser and light-based treatments target the visible blood vessels without breaking the skin. Most patients describe the sensation as brief warmth or a snapping feeling. Discomfort is typically mild and short-lived, and no anesthesia is usually required.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment depends on vessel size, depth, skin type, and location. At Copeland MD, options include:

  • ClearV (1064 nm Nd:YAG laser):
    Designed specifically for vascular lesions, ClearV precisely targets visible blood vessels on the face and body while protecting surrounding skin. It is effective for deeper or more stubborn capillaries.
  • BBL HEROicâ„¢ (BroadBand Light):
    Ideal for diffuse redness, early vascular changes, and rosacea-related flushing. BBL improves overall skin tone while reducing visible capillaries.

In some cases, a combination of treatments is recommended for optimal results.

RISKS, RECOVERY, AFTERCARE

What treatment options are available?

What are the risks?

Potential side effects may include:

  • Temporary redness or swelling
  • Mild bruising
  • Rare pigment changes, particularly in darker skin tones
  • Very rare blistering or scarring

Risks are minimized through proper patient selection, conservative settings, and medical oversight.
What is recommended for aftercare?

  • Avoid sun exposure and use SPF 30+ daily
  • Avoid heat, strenuous exercise, and alcohol for 24–48 hours
  • Use gentle skincare products during healing
  • Do not pick or irritate treated areas

Your provider will give personalized aftercare instructions.

COSTS

Cost to remove spider veins (Telangiectasia)

Telangiectasia (spider vein) removal prices start at $350 per session. Price depends on the the number of veins, and the area treated. Facial veins often cost between $350 and $500 per session, while more extensive leg vein treatments can range from $350 to over $1,000.
A quotation will be provided during your consultation.

No Referral Needed

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