Broken capillaries are commonly referred to as spider veins or medically known as telangiectasia. These tiny, congealed blood vessels can usually be found on the nose, cheeks and chin and are particularly common in thin, sensitive skins. Spider Veins can also be found on the legs, mainly in the thigh and ankle area.
Broken Capillaries form when multiple small blood vessels near the surface of the skin dilate. Whilst the capillary is not technically broken, weakness in the vessel wall or an imbalance with blood flow creates the pooling and the appearance of small reddened networks like a spider’s web.
The formation of telangiectasia is often genetic, however external and internal aggressors may include:
- Allergies
- Sun damage
- Medication
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- The consumption of spicy food
- Naturally occurring with age