Dear Dr. Seckel, I have broken blood vessels around my nose and cheeks. I also have some brown spots. I saw a Dermatologist and he said these were skin aging changes and suggested sun block. How does skin aging cause broken blood vessels? I am 49 and don’t expect to look 20. But my face does look older. I am also noticing the nose to mouth lines that many of your readers mention. What are the best non-surgical methods to freshen the face? I need good anti-aging skin care advice. Thank You, Marie, Boston, Massachusetts.
Dear Marie,
Thank you for your question. Broken blood vessels are very common around the nose and cheeks and are a sign of skin aging. They are caused most commonly by inflammation from UV radiation from the sun-years of sun exposure-especially in thin skinned people.
The sun injures the skin which causes inflammation. When the skin is inflamed new blood vessels form, those left behind after the inflammation is healed are seen as broken blood vessels-technically called Telangiectasia. Brown spots are also a sign of inflammation and they tend to occur in sun exposed areas. During inflammation pigment is produced and a brown spot created-called post inflammatory hyper pigmentation.
IPL-Intense Pulsed Light, also called photo facial is the best treatment for broken blood vessels and brown spots. Results can be dramatic.
There are excellent laser wrinkle removal techniques available including lasers, Retin A, and microdermabrasion treatments. Significant improvement in facial wrinkles is possible but expertise is needed. Don’t be taken in by the fabulous wrinkle creams offered on the net and TV-most do not remove wrinkles.
Nose to mouth lines, jowls, and general facial aging can be improved nicely with the new Liquid Face Lift. This remarkable technique using soft tissue fillers can actually plump the cheeks, restore facial volume and lessen the nasal labial folds and marionette lines.
Botox™ is also an effective method for removing wrinkles around the lips, crow’s feet, frown lines and worry lines. Botox™ not only removes wrinkles it also prevents new ones from forming.
Sign up for our free newsletter to learn about new anti-aging skin care discoveries as they happen. Read Save Your Face for a detailed discussion of non-surgical facial rejuvenation. You may contact me by email or 978-369-4499.
Dr Seckel
Concord, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts