Have you ever noticed small red or purple veins on your skin and wondered what they were? Or maybe you have seen more prominent blue or green veins that seem to be web-like in shape. These are both common types of veins that can appear on the surface of the skin and are nothing to worry about. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 80% of adults have some form of vein problem. But what types of veins are often present, and what can be done to address them? Dr. Brian P. Mekelburg can help you distinguish between the two standard varieties of vein issues and seek effective treatment in his Los Angeles, CA office.
Broken capillaries vs. spider veins
There are two varieties of veins that can commonly be seen on the surface of the skin: broken capillaries and spider veins. Both are caused by damage to the small blood vessels beneath the skin, but there are some key differences between them.
Broken capillaries are usually red or purple in color and tend to be linear in shape. These veins can be caused by a number of things, including sun damage, injury, or even certain medical conditions. Alternatively, spider veins are typically blue or green and have a web-like appearance. These are often found on the legs and ankles and are most common in women over the age of 50.
Treatment options for vein concerns
So, what does this mean for you? If you notice broken capillaries or spider veins, there are several treatment options available to help improve the appearance of your skin. In most situations, our team will use laser light energy to target the pigmentation in the blood and heat the veins to destroy them. This is done in a non-invasive manner and offers proven results! The laser devices we use in our office can be adjusted to various wavelengths to ensure a customized treatment for every patient’s unique needs.
Do you have broken capillaries or spider veins?
If you are dealing with specific vein issues on the face or body and live in the area of Los Angeles, CA, call the office of Dr. Brian P. Mekelburg, dermatologist, to schedule a consultation visit with our team members. Call 310-659-9075 to request your appointment with our friendly front office staff, conveniently located in the East Tower of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers.
