Telangiectasias, commonly known as broken capillaries, are small, dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin that appear as fine red or purplish lines, often on the face. Factors like sun exposure, genetics, and underlying conditions such as rosacea can cause these vessels to become visible. Laser treatment offers a precise method to collapse and eliminate these vessels, but understanding the post-procedure recovery is important. The healing process involves distinct stages, starting with immediate reactions and progressing to the final visual outcome.
Immediate Post-Treatment Skin Reactions
The treated area will show immediate, temporary reactions that indicate the laser energy has successfully targeted the vessels. Redness, known as erythema, and mild swelling, or edema, are nearly universal responses that resemble a light sunburn. These initial side effects typically resolve within the first 24 to 48 hours following the procedure.
A significant and expected reaction is the darkening of the treated vessels, which can sometimes appear purplish or bruise-like. This darkening is a positive sign that the laser’s light energy was absorbed by the hemoglobin, causing the vessel to coagulate and seal shut. This immediate discoloration, termed purpura, is a temporary bruise that confirms the vessel has been effectively damaged for the body to clear away.
The treated skin may also feel slightly warm, tender, or tight for the first day. Applying a cold compress intermittently during the first few hours can help minimize swelling and discomfort. While most reactions are mild, their intensity can vary based on the size and number of capillaries treated and the specific laser settings used.
The Healing Process and Essential Short-Term Care
The active healing phase begins once the initial redness and swelling subside, typically starting around Day 2 or 3 and continuing for up to two weeks. During this time, the coagulated vessels are naturally absorbed by the body. The darkened capillaries may progress into small, flaky crusts or scabs, which is a normal part of the skin’s regeneration process.
It is necessary to allow these crusts to fall off on their own, which may take between one and two weeks. Picking or forcefully removing the scabs can cause scarring or lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Gently cleansing the area with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and lukewarm water is recommended, followed by patting the skin dry to avoid friction.
Maintaining skin hydration with a simple, bland moisturizer, free of active ingredients like retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids, is helpful during the first week. Protecting the treated area from the sun is the most important step in post-treatment care. Stringent use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is mandatory to prevent potential darkening of the skin.
Avoiding activities that introduce excess heat to the skin is advised for at least 48 hours after the procedure, including strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can interfere with the sealing of the treated capillaries. While rare, signs of abnormal healing, such as excessive blistering, increased pain, or the development of pus, require contacting your provider immediately.
Anticipating Final Results and Long-Term Prevention
The final disappearance of the treated capillaries is not instantaneous; it is a gradual process that occurs as the body clears the remnants of the sealed vessels. You can expect to see the final result of a single laser session about four to six weeks after the procedure, once all crusting and residual discoloration have resolved. The treated vessels are permanently eliminated, but new broken capillaries can still form over time.
Most patients require multiple treatment sessions, typically spaced four to eight weeks apart, to achieve the desired clearance, as not all vessels respond identically to a single pass. The necessity for multiple sessions depends on the density of the capillaries and how deeply they sit within the skin. Your provider will schedule follow-up treatments based on your skin’s response and the fading of the initial vessels.
Long-term management focuses on preventing the development of new capillaries to maintain results. Consistent daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen remains the most effective preventative measure against sun damage, a primary cause of vessel fragility. Managing chronic conditions like rosacea with appropriate medication or skincare can reduce the likelihood of new vessel formation.
It is helpful to avoid known triggers that cause excessive facial flushing, such as extreme temperature changes, high alcohol consumption, and spicy foods. Adopting a gentle skincare routine and consistently protecting the skin from environmental stressors can significantly prolong the positive effects of the laser treatment.