What Causes Redness or Broken Blood Vessels?
Skin redness can be caused by a variety of issues or conditions. In some cases, broken blood vessels may be the cause of redness; in others, the skin may be inflamed or irritated.
Some common causes of facial redness include:
- Rosacea
- Acne
- Sun damage
- Seborrheic dermatitis
In addition, redness can be caused by broken blood vessels or capillaries due to trauma or age. Broken blood vessels are sometimes referred to as “spider veins” when found on the legs.
How Can I Prevent Redness or Broken Blood Vessels?
Depending on the type of redness you are dealing with, the appearance may be worsened by certain triggers. Some triggers that can cause skin redness or broken blood vessels include:
- Stress
- Extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Aggressively scrubbing the skin
- Excessive sun exposure
For skin redness caused by excess sun exposure, you may be able to prevent the condition by using sunscreen daily and wearing sun-protective clothing to limit your exposure to UV rays.
Why Treat Redness or Broken Blood Vessels?
One reason to treat redness or broken blood vessels is to address the underlying condition which can worsen over time when left untreated. For example, rosacea can elicit periodic flare-ups. These flare-ups can become more severe or last longer if not treated.
In other cases, redness or broken blood vessels may be cosmetically bothersome. There are several treatment options available, and your dermatologist can suggest the best fit for you.
How Can I Treat Redness and Broken Blood Vessels?
The correct treatment for your redness or broken blood vessels depends on the underlying cause, your goals for treatment, your health, and other factors. These factors will be carefully evaluated by your dermatologist at Arlington Dermatology, who will suggest the best treatment plan for you.
Some common treatment options for redness and broken blood vessels include:
- Over-the-counter topical skin care products
- Prescription topical and oral medications
- IPL and other laser treatments
Schedule an Appointment
If you have redness or broken blood vessels that you wish to have addressed or removed, a dermatologist can help. At Arlington Dermatology, our team of board-certified dermatologists can determine the cause of your redness or broken blood vessels and develop a personalized and effective treatment plan for you.
To schedule an appointment at Arlington Dermatology, please call our office or contact us online.
