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Thread veins and rosacea

Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.

In the past there was little we could do about broken thread veins but now with the technology of Intense Pulsed Light, it has revolutionised treatments so that many capillaries and veins can be virtually erased.

Your practitioner may recommend suitable home care products to use, to help prevent and protect from further damage as most capillaries are caused by chronic sun exposure, wind exposure and to harsh temperture changes.

HOW DOES THE TREATMENT WORK?

Both intense pulse light and laser systems emit light which is readily absorbed by blood vessels, heating them to a point where they are destroyed. Following treatment, the vessels quickly clear as they are reabsorbed by the body, leaving little or no trace of the original lesion.

WHICH TYPES OF VEINS CAN BE TREATED?

Most red skin lesions including facial thread veins, rosacea and spider naevi are treated with intense pulse light, whereas lag veins up to 3mm in diameter are often treated with a laser.

The more melanin in the skin the more heat will be produced so it is therefore not possible to treat dark skinned and tanned individuals.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NECESSARY?

Typically 3 - 5 treatments are needed for maximum results, though small lesions may clear in just a single session. Repeat treatments are spaced every 4 -6 weeks apart.

HOW DOES THE TREATMENT FEEL?

Treatment is mildly uncomfortable but there is no need for anaesthesia and the procedure is actually quite quick. Sensations vary but most describe it as a very hot pin prick.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

After treatment the area may feel warm for a few hours. Rarely some delicate skin areas such as the cheeks or décolleté can be red and slightly swollen for all to 48 hours. Though very rare, there is a chance a small blister may form and there could be temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.