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Fine Blood Vessels

Treat Fine Blood Vessels and Achieve Smoother, Clearer Skin

Fine blood vessels, often referred to as broken capillaries, are small, red, or purple veins that appear close to the surface of the skin. These vessels can be a cosmetic concern, especially when they appear on the face, nose, or legs. At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we offer effective treatments to reduce the appearance of fine blood vessels, helping you achieve smooth, clear, and even-toned skin. Our expert dermatologists in Fairfax, VA, use advanced technology to target these vessels with precision and care.

What Are Fine Blood Vessels?


Fine blood vessels are tiny, dilated blood vessels that become visible under the skin. These vessels can appear as small red or purple lines, commonly in a spiderweb or branch-like pattern, and are most commonly found on the face, particularly around the cheeks, nose, and chin. Fine blood vessels can also develop on the legs.

Common causes of fine blood vessels include:


  • Aging: As we age, the skin becomes thinner, and the blood vessels become more visible.
  • Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can weaken the walls of blood vessels, making them more likely to break or dilate.
  • Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to developing visible blood vessels.
  • Rosacea: This skin condition can cause redness and the development of fine blood vessels, especially on the face.
  • Pregnancy or Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to the dilation of blood vessels, especially during pregnancy.
  • Injury or Trauma: Physical injury or trauma to the skin can damage blood vessels, causing them to become visible.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Chronic alcohol use can weaken blood vessel walls, leading to visible veins.

Treatment Options for Fine Blood Vessels at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax


At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we offer several advanced treatment options to help reduce the appearance of fine blood vessels, restoring your skin’s smooth and even appearance. Our treatments are designed to target these vessels with minimal discomfort and minimal downtime.

1. Laser Treatments for Fine Blood Vessels

Laser therapy is one of the most effective treatments for fine blood vessels. At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we use Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Laser Vascular Treatments to target the visible blood vessels without harming the surrounding skin.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): IPL is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to target the pigment in the blood vessels, causing them to coagulate and fade. IPL is highly effective for treating facial redness, and rosacea.

Laser Vascular Treatment: For more stubborn or deeper veins, we use a specialized laser that delivers targeted energy to the blood vessels, causing them to shrink and gradually disappear.

These treatments are quick, non-invasive, and require little to no downtime. You can return to your daily activities almost immediately after treatment.

2. Electrosurgery for Fine Blood Vessels

Electrosurgery is another treatment option for fine blood vessels, especially those that are smaller and more superficial. This procedure uses high-frequency electrical currents to coagulate the blood vessels, causing them to collapse and disappear. Electrosurgery is a precise treatment that can target individual blood vessels with minimal damage to the surrounding tissue.

This treatment is effective for treating fine blood vessels on the face, especially around the nose and cheeks.

3. Sclerotherapy for Leg Veins

For fine blood vessels on the legs, sclerotherapy is a popular treatment. During this procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected directly into the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and fade over time. Sclerotherapy is effective for treating both small veins and larger varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy requires multiple sessions for optimal results, and patients may experience mild bruising at the injection sites, which resolves over time.

4. Topical Treatments for Redness

In addition to professional treatments, there are also topical treatments that can help manage the appearance of fine blood vessels. These treatments are often used as part of a comprehensive approach to improving skin tone and reducing redness. Some effective ingredients include:


  • Vitamin K: Known for its ability to help reduce redness and improve the appearance of blood vessels.
  • Niacinamide: A soothing anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce visible redness.
  • Retinoids: Retinoids promote skin cell turnover, which can help reduce the appearance of fine blood vessels over time.

Your dermatologist may recommend these products as part of your treatment plan to maintain the results and prevent the formation of new blood vessels.

5. Sun Protection for Sensitive Skin

Since sun exposure can exacerbate the appearance of fine blood vessels, sun protection is essential for anyone undergoing treatment. We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from UV damage. Wearing sun-protective clothing and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours, will also help prevent further damage to your blood vessels and skin.

Why Choose Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax for Fine Blood Vessel Treatment?


  • Experienced Dermatologists: Our board-certified dermatologists are skilled in treating fine blood vessels, using the latest and most effective treatments to improve your skin’s appearance.
  • Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art laser technologies and other cutting-edge treatments to target visible blood vessels and restore even skin tone.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: We understand that every patient’s skin is unique, which is why we tailor each treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.
  • Minimal Downtime: Most of our treatments for fine blood vessels are non-invasive and require little to no downtime, so you can quickly return to your daily routine.
  • Convenient Location: We are conveniently located in Fairfax, VA, making it easy for patients throughout Northern Virginia to access expert dermatologic care.

How to Get Started


If you’re ready to treat fine blood vessels and restore smoother, clearer skin, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists. We will assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and recommend the most effective treatment for your needs.

Call us at 703-352-2620 to book your consultation or visit our website to choose a time that’s convenient for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. Are fine blood vessels harmful?

Fine blood vessels are generally harmless but can be a cosmetic concern. In some cases, they may be a sign of underlying conditions like rosacea, which may require further management. It’s important to consult a dermatologist if you have concerns.

2. How long does it take to see results from treatments?

Most treatments, such as laser therapy and electrosurgery, show noticeable results within a few weeks. Some patients may require multiple sessions for optimal results, especially for larger or deeper vessels.

3. Are the treatments for fine blood vessels painful?

Most treatments, such as laser therapy and sclerotherapy, are well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort. Your dermatologist will take steps to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

4. Can fine blood vessels come back after treatment?

While treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of fine blood vessels, new vessels may develop over time due to sun exposure, aging, or other factors. Ongoing maintenance and sun protection can help prevent new vessels from forming.

5. Is there any downtime after treatment for fine blood vessels?

Most treatments for fine blood vessels involve minimal downtime. You may experience slight redness or swelling, but this typically resolves within a few hours to a few days. Your dermatologist will provide aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

Achieve Clearer, Smoother Skin Today


At Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax, we are dedicated to helping you reduce the appearance of fine blood vessels and achieve a more even, youthful complexion. Our expert team is ready to assist you.

Call 703-352-2620 to take the first step toward clearer, smoother skin.