An important manifestation of skin aging is the appearance of dilated blood vessels in the skin. Small, red coloured blood vessels are called telangiectasia whereas visible small blue coloured blood vessels are called venulectasia. They are less than 1mm in diameter.
Spider vessels can be a result of ultraviolet damage and photoaging of the skin. Ultraviolet radiation leads to an increase in production of metalloproteinases and reactive oxygen species in the dermis. This leads to degradation of the collagen-elastin network, destabilises the extra-cellular matrix and results in skin atrophy. This increases the risk of appearance of dilated capillaries/arterioles and veins.
Other acquired causes of telangiectasia include:
- Acne rosacea
- Smoking
- Long term treatment with topical steroids
- Pregnancy
- Radiation exposure
- Cushing’s syndrome
Telangiectasia may also be inherited as part of a genetic disorder but this is rare.
Therapy
Skincare:
- Broad spectrum sunblock is important to prevent further UV photodamage
- Products that contain glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronic acid and chondroitin help to boost moisture levels and stabilise the extracellular matrix
- Polydroxyacids (PHA) inhibit metalloproteinase activity and stabilise the collagen-elastin network. They also strengthen the skin barrier and protect against further environmental damage. They also have the added advantage of causing less irritation than traditional alpha-hydroxy acids and is suitable for sensitive skin.
- Ceramide restores the skin barrier, locks in moisture and protects the skin from environmental damage
Aesthetic treatments:
- Dual/High frequency ultrasound works on restoring and stabilising the extracellular matrix by inhibiting metalloproteinases, activating heat shock proteins and increasing glycosaminoglycan content.
- Specific laser treatment with long pulse KTP and Nd-YAG lasers can directly target abnormal spider vessels and effectively remove them
- Skinbooster treatments can help to restore moisture content and stimulate collagen production and reverse skin atrophy