We offer vascular lesion removal treatments in Edmonton, Alberta.
What are vascular lesions?
Vascular lesions are due to conditions such as Rosacea, couperose skin, sensitized skin, or simply genetics. Frequent, consistent redness and broken capillaries are typical characteristics present of these types of conditions.
How do I know if I have Rosacea?
Talk to your doctor if you think you may have Rosacea. Common symptoms of Rosacea include:
Flushing
Persistent Redness
Bumps and Pimples
Visible Blood Vessels
Broken Capillaries
Burning or Stinging
Swelling
Eye Irritation
Dry Appearance
Skin Thickening
Plaques (overgrowths of skin)
Phototherapy reduces redness and broken capillaries
We do vascular lesion removal with phototherapy, more specifically, with our ALIVIA photofacial.
To understand how phototherapy reduces Rosacea symptoms, let’s begin with the fact that oxyhemoglobin is formed by the combination of hemoglobin with oxygen, present in oxygenated blood. When we apply light energy, oxyhemoglobin in the blood within the targeted vessel absorbs the energy. In turn, this causes the blood to coagulate and the vessel to break up into particles. Finally, these particles are naturally filtered away through the body’s lymphatic system.
Is the ALIVIA photofacial painful?
Most clients would agree that phototherapy is not painful at all. During the procedure, you may feel a slight, momentary stinging sensation. This sensation is comparable to the snapping of a small elastic band, but not pain.
We provide post care instructions for your treatment. While there are some minor recommendations we as you to follow, the ALIVIA photofacial does NOT require any downtime whatsoever!
Our Skin Experts are knowledgeable on our technology, AND on the biology of the skin. This increases the comfort and safety of all of our treatments. Our treatments are non-invasive and safe, with minimum side effects if any at all.
Facial redness can be a symptom of irritation, inflammation, damage, trauma to the skin, allergies, or skin conditions.
Should I be worried about broken capillaries?
Although broken capillaries do not typically cause discomfort, they can cause inflammation due to an increased circulation to the area. In turn, this can cause enlarging of the pores. So, the concern is not so much from a health perspective as it is from an esthetic concern.
If the visual appearance bothers you, you should be concerned! If left untreated, it’s going to continue to progress and can cause other unsightly or esthetically unpleasing effects to the skin. It always good to consult with physician or a dermatologist to be aware of what the causes or contributing factors are.
Broken capillaries and redness on the face can make you photosensitive, meaning more reactive to sun exposure.
How do you get rid of redness and broken capillaries on your face?
The first step is to get the contributing factors under control if possible. From there, you can remove the redness and broken capillaries with phototherapy, in particular, Intense Pulse Light (IPL) photofacials.
The reason why IPL is highly recommended for alleviating broken blood vessels and inflammation on the skin is because of it’s target precision. IPL is a very targeted treatment that goes straight to the source without injuring or traumatizing the surrounding tissues or cells. It will not cause further damage or irritation as the light penetrates into the skin thereby preserving the surrounding tissues.
Other treatment options.
Second to photofacials, you can treat using an acid-based method. These treatments are on a topical level. We treat redness using salicylic acid. It helps reconstruct the superficial layers of the skin by causing controlled injury to the skin. In turn, this stimulates the skin to rebuild new cells and also helps to take down inflammation.
Often, broken capillaries are accompanied by a general redness or flush to the skin. This is usually caused by inflammation. Salicylic acid reduces the inflammation which helps to shrink down the pores. It also helps to decongest the pores that clogged up as a result of them opening up more than usual due to the inflammation.
Finally, acid-based treatments strengthen the skin and help to rebalance the skin’s ph level.
Salicylic vs Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Betahydroxy acids work more on a superficial level than alpha hydroxy acids. They don’t absorb as deep. This makes them ideal for treating sensitive or sensitized sin.
Home tips for redness and broken capillaries.
Avoid extended heat and sun exposure. If or when you do experience extended exposure, use different means to cool your skin down as soon as possible. We recommend putting spoons in the fridge (not freezer) and using them to calm the skin. You can also use cooling eye gel packs. Finally, use products that contain aloe.
How do I know if I have rosacea?
There are 5 telling symptoms of rosacea. Symptoms of rosacea include sensitivity, enlarged pores, constant flush to the skin, broken capillaries, and pustules. Consult with physician or a dermatologist if you think you have rosacea to be aware of what the causes or contributing factors are.
What is the best moisturizer for rosacea?
Use a nourishing moisturizer that is ph balanced and is hydrating to the skin. It should contain aloe or other active soothing ingredients.
Does rosacea get worse with age?
Yes, rosacea is a progressive skin condition that is not known to have a cure. But never fear, there are steps you can take to manage rosacea symptoms. The cause is unknown but can be linked to genetics.