Acne breakouts, dark spots, and tans are some of the skin woes that can put a damper on your skin's beauty and health. Have you ever observed a spidery little vein in the middle of your face, that seems to have blown up? Well, fret not they are broken capillaries on the face which are harmless and more prevalent than you think.
Take this two-minute read to learn more about the causes of dilated or broken capillaries, ways to prevent them and simple remedies to fade them.
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What Are Broken Capillaries on the Face?
Broken blood vessels on the facial skin or spider veins are inflamed capillaries that develop beneath the skin layer. They often appear as red, blue or purple lines and resemble a web or tree branches. Usually, spider veins are seen on the face or legs, however, they may appear anywhere on the body. Though spider veins or broken capillaries are harmless, they can be a cosmetic issue for many people.
Also Read: Telangiectasias/Spider Veins: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment
Causes of Broken Capillaries on the Face
Numerous factors contribute to the occurrence of broken capillaries on the face, including:
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage the skin and weaken capillaries, making them more visible.
Ageing: As we age, the skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, which can make blood vessels more visible.
Genetics: A family history of broken capillaries can increase your chance of developing them.
Skin Trauma: Any damage to the skin, such as aggressive scrubbing or facial treatments, can cause capillaries to break.
Temperature Extremes: Ove exposure to extreme heat or cold can cause blood vessels to expand and contract rapidly, leading to broken capillaries.
Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption daily can dilate blood vessels and cause them to become more visible over time.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rosacea or hormonal imbalance, can increase the risk of broken capillaries.
Effective Home Remedies to Treat Broken Capillaries
While broken capillaries can be treated with medical procedures like laser therapy or sclerotherapy, several natural home remedies can help reduce their appearance:
Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the affected region can help lessen redness and constrict blood vessels, minimizing the appearance of broken capillaries. Take a towel wrap a few ice cubes and give a mild compression to the skin for a few minutes.
Aloe Vera
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of Aloe vera gel, which can assist mitigate the redness and inflammation associated with broken capillaries. Smear fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known for its astringent properties, which can support firm skin and reduce the appearance of broken capillaries. Mix diluted ACV with equal parts of water and dab it on the affected area with a cotton ball. Let it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Witch Hazel
The natural astringent and anti-inflammatory action of witch hazel can help reduce the visibility of broken capillaries. Soak a cotton pad in witch hazel and gently apply it to the affected area. Allow it to dry naturally.
Green Tea
Green tea is bestowed with potent antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin and lessen the appearance of broken capillaries. Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and use a cotton ball to smear the mixture on the affected area. Alternatively, you can use chilled green tea bags as a compress.
Tips for Preventing Broken Capillaries
- Ensure to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays and sun damage.
- Avoid aggressive scrubbing or using harsh skincare products that can irritate the skin.
- Reducing alcohol intake can help prevent the dilation of blood vessels.
- Have a wholesome and balanced diet laden with antioxidants and vitamins to nourish and rejuvenate skin health.
Conclusion
Broken capillaries on the face can be a cosmetic concern, but they are usually harmless. Try some of these natural home remedies to ease their appearance and maintain glowing and blemish-free skin. If home remedies are ineffective, seek immediate medical help by consulting a dermatologist for appropriate treatments.
(This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Spider Veins , Darren P. Sandean; Ryan Winters.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563218/
https://www.jvsvenous.org/article/S2213-333X(17)30078-1/fulltext
