Visible Blood Vessels

Visible blood vessels can appear as fine red, purple or blue lines beneath the skin, particularly across the cheeks, nose and other areas of the face. Some people naturally have more visible vessels, while for others they become increasingly noticeable over time alongside facial redness, rosacea or sun damage.

At Pure Perfection, we assess the type, size and location of the vessels before recommending treatment. Laser and light-based technologies can be used to target suitable facial vascular concerns, while visible veins on the legs may require a different approach such as sclerotherapy.

What Are Visible Blood Vessels?

Visible blood vessels are small vessels that have become enlarged or prominent enough to be seen through the surface of the skin.

On the face, they may appear as individual red or purple lines around the nose and cheeks or as part of more widespread facial redness. They are sometimes referred to as broken capillaries, facial veins or telangiectasia.

Visible vessels can also develop on the legs. These may range from fine thread veins to larger vascular veins, and the appropriate treatment depends on their size and characteristics.

What Causes Visible Blood Vessels?

Genetics can influence how prone you are to visible vessels, while naturally fair or thinner skin may make underlying vascular changes easier to see.

Repeated sun exposure can damage and weaken the structures supporting small blood vessels, making them more noticeable over time. Rosacea and repeated episodes of facial flushing can also contribute to persistent redness and visible vessels across the central face.

Ageing, hormonal changes, temperature extremes and other environmental factors may contribute. On the legs, genetics, hormonal changes, prolonged standing and changes in circulation can influence the development of visible veins.

Treatments for Visible Blood Vessels at Pure Perfection

Treatment depends on whether the concern involves individual facial vessels, diffuse redness or visible veins on the legs.

XEO Plus

The XEO Plus platform can be used to target suitable vascular concerns using technology selected according to the type and depth of the visible vessel.

Controlled energy targets the vessel while minimising unnecessary treatment of the surrounding skin. Over time, the treated vessel is gradually broken down and cleared naturally by the body.

LimeLight IPL

LimeLight IPL uses targeted light energy to address unwanted red colour within the skin. It may be appropriate when visible vessels occur alongside diffuse facial redness or pigmentation.

Because IPL can address both red and brown discolouration, it may be particularly useful where vascular changes and sun damage are contributing to an uneven complexion.

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis may be considered where diffuse facial redness is more prominent than individual vessels. It offers a gentler approach to redness while also supporting overall skin quality.

Sclerotherapy

For suitable thread and vascular veins on the legs, sclerotherapy may be recommended.

A specialised solution is injected into the affected vessel, causing it to close before it is gradually absorbed by the body. Sclerotherapy is not appropriate for every type of leg vein, so assessment is required before treatment.

Larger, raised, painful or swollen leg veins, or symptoms that may indicate an underlying vascular problem, may require further medical or vascular assessment rather than cosmetic treatment.

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