Facial vein treatment reduces the appearance of spider veins, broken capillaries, and other small visible vessels on the face, most often around the nose, cheeks, and chin. At The Aesthetic Xpert in Fairfax, VA, we use the Spectrum platform by Rohrer Aesthetics. It combines a long-pulsed YAG laser and intense pulsed light (IPL), so our provider can match the technology to your specific concern.
The laser and light energy are absorbed by the blood inside the targeted vessel. This heats the vessel and causes it to collapse, and your body gradually clears it away over the following days to weeks. The surrounding skin stays intact, so there are no incisions and very little downtime.
Facial vein treatment is a non-invasive laser and light treatment that reduces visible veins, broken capillaries, and redness on the face for a clearer, more even complexion.
Facial vein treatment can improve spider veins, broken capillaries, cherry angiomas, and the persistent redness and flushing that often come with rosacea. While there is no cure for rosacea, treatment can noticeably reduce the visible redness and vessels it causes.
The long-pulsed YAG laser uses a 1064 nm wavelength that reaches deeper into the skin. It’s ideal for individual veins, including larger or bluish vessels. IPL delivers broad-spectrum light over a wider area, which makes it well suited to diffuse redness and clusters of fine capillaries. Both work by heating the blood within the vessel so it collapses and fades. Our provider may use one or both depending on your skin and goals. If you also want to address sun spots and uneven tone, ask about IPL Photorejuvenation.
Most patients describe a quick snap or flash of heat, similar to a rubber band against the skin. How it feels depends on the area and the type of vessel being treated. Our provider may use cooling or a topical numbing cream and will check on your comfort throughout your session.
Most sessions take about 30 minutes, depending on how many areas are treated. If numbing cream is used, plan for extra time at your appointment for it to take effect.
Small individual veins often improve after just one session, with the best results developing within a few days to a couple of weeks. Widespread redness or multiple vessels usually respond best to a short series of treatments spaced about a month apart. Our provider will assess your progress and tailor your plan.
Redness, mild swelling, and some irritation are common for the first few hours to a few days. Treated vessels may look darker or slightly bruised before they fade. Most patients return to their normal routine right away. For a day or two, avoid heat such as hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise. Protect your skin from the sun, apply sunscreen daily, and use any aftercare products our provider recommends.
Vessels that have been successfully treated do not return. However, new ones can form over time due to genetics, sun exposure, rosacea, alcohol, and temperature changes. Many patients schedule occasional maintenance treatments to keep their skin clear.
Facial vein treatment is a good option for many skin types. The long-pulsed YAG laser is generally better suited to deeper skin tones than IPL, so our provider will choose the safest approach for your skin. Treatment may not be recommended if you have a recent tan or sunburn, an active infection or open wound in the treatment area, or are pregnant, or if you take medications that make your skin more sensitive to light. Any new, growing, or bleeding spot should be checked by a physician before cosmetic treatment. Our provider will review your skin and medical history during your consultation to decide if this treatment is right for you.
