What is Dilated Capillary Treatment?
Dilated capillary treatment is done to reduce the appearance of dilated capillaries, such as birthmarks, red blotches, hemangiomas, and port wine stains, using a pulsed dye laser. This laser delivers targeted energy that is absorbed by the blood vessels without harming the surrounding skin, gradually diminishing redness over time. The treatment is safe, precise, and highly effective for improving overall skin clarity and tone.
I’ve been a patient here for about 4 years, and I couldn’t be more pleased. The staff is really nice, and appointments are 90% on time, and the doctor is really great. He doesn’t over prescribe/offer unneeded treatments, and he is really just a nice guy. 10/10, 100% recommended.”
Who is a Candidate for Dilated Capillary Treatment?
Good candidates for dilated capillary treatment at BairdMD in Farmington Hills are individuals who are bothered by the appearance of visible, enlarged blood vessels on their skin. This includes people dealing with facial redness caused by rosacea, years of sun exposure, or hereditary factors. Patients with fair skin tones tend to respond especially well to the treatment, as the laser energy is more readily absorbed by the targeted blood vessels with less interference from surrounding pigmentation.
Candidates should also be in reasonably good overall health and have realistic expectations about the process. Because most patients require four to eight sessions spaced about one month apart to see their desired results, ideal candidates are also those who are prepared to commit to a consistent treatment schedule.
Common Causes for Dilated Capillaries
Common causes for dilated capillaries include sun exposure, genetics, aging, and skin conditions such as rosacea. Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, wind exposure, or the use of harsh skincare products can also weaken the capillary walls, making them more visible over time. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and smoking may contribute to the dilation of facial blood vessels.
Symptoms and Where They Appear
Dilated capillaries often appear as fine red or purple lines beneath the surface of the skin, giving the appearance of persistent redness or blotchiness. They are most commonly seen on areas of the face that experience frequent sun exposure, such as the cheeks, nose, and chin. In some cases, these visible vessels can also appear on the neck or chest.
While dilated capillaries are generally harmless, many people seek treatment to improve their skin’s tone and restore a more even, radiant complexion. Ideal candidates for treatment will have fair skin tones with unwanted capillaries on the face.
Before Your Dilated Capillary Treatment
Preparing your skin properly in the weeks leading up to your dilated capillary treatment at BairdMD is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure the best possible results. Because the pulsed dye laser targets the hemoglobin within blood vessels, it relies on the skin above those vessels being as light as possible. For this reason, you should avoid tanning, sunbathing, and prolonged outdoor sun exposure for at least three weeks before your appointment.
In addition to avoiding sun exposure, you should steer clear of aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood-thinning medications for one to two weeks before your session, as these can interfere with the healing process following treatment. On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean skin by removing any makeup, lotions, or sunscreen from the area being treated before you come in.
Treatments for Dilated Capillaries and Dilated Blood Vessels
Dilated capillary treatment is performed in the laser suite, generally without anesthetic, but ice may be applied. Eye protection will need to be worn, and the pulsed dye laser instrument will shine pulses of laser light on and off the treated area. These pulses will pass through the skin layers to be absorbed by the blood vessels, lightening their appearance. Most patients describe the laser pulses and feeling similar to a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
Most patients will require four to eight treatment sessions spaced one month apart to see desired results.
Following treatment, patients may experience a sensation similar to a mild sunburn, and redness will occur for about three to four days. Bruising may also occur in the treatment areas, though this is rare. Ice packs can be used to help soothe the treated area. During recovery, dilated capillaries will darken before lightening in color. Patients should avoid direct sunlight and always wear sunscreen on the treated area when outside.
On Our Blog:
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Dilated Capillaries?
Things to Know Before Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment
How Does Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Work?
How is Treatment Done?
Dilated capillary treatment is performed in the laser suite, generally without anesthetic but ice may be applied. Eye protection will need to be worn, and the pulsed dye laser instrument will shine pulses of laser light on and off the treated area. These pulses will pass through the skin layers to be absorbed by the blood vessels, lightening their appearance. Most patients describe the laser pulses and feeling similar to a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
Most patients will require four to eight treatment sessions spaced one month apart to see desired results.
Recovery After Dilated Capillary Treatment
Following treatment, patients may experience a sensation similar to a mild sunburn, and redness will occur for about three to four days. Bruising may also occur in the treatment areas, though this is rare. Ice packs can be used to help soothe the treated area. During recovery, dilated capillaries will darken before lightening in color. Patients should avoid direct sunlight and always wear sunscreen on the treated area when outside.
How to Prevent Dilated Capillaries
Preventing dilated capillaries begins with protecting your skin from the elements and avoiding factors that damage blood vessels. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, even on cloudy days, can help prevent the breakdown of capillary walls caused by UV exposure. Gentle skincare practices, such as avoiding overly hot water, harsh scrubs, or chemical irritants, can also reduce the risk. Limiting alcohol, managing stress, and protecting your skin from extreme temperatures can further minimize flare-ups. Regular visits to a dermatologist can help you maintain skin health and catch early signs of vascular damage before they become more visible.
