How to repair facial redness and broken capillaries

Facial redness or visible blood vessels are usually caused by environmental irritation, improper skincare, poor diet, rosacea, or telangiectasia. Treatments such as photorejuvenation (IPL), laser therapy, microneedling, or medication may be used under the guidance of a physician. Specific causes and treatments are analyzed below:

1. Environmental Irritation

Long-term exposure to dry or cold environments may irritate facial skin, causing blood vessel dilation and visible red blood vessels. In cold or dry conditions, outdoor activity should be minimized and excessive wind exposure avoided. Photorejuvenation treatment under medical supervision can help; this uses broad-spectrum pulsed light to close abnormal capillaries and improve redness. The typical reference cost for photorejuvenation is 1,000–3,000 RMB per session. Improvement is generally seen within 1–3 months after treatment, though side effects such as redness, swelling, or stinging may occur.

2. Improper Skincare

Using skincare products containing alcohol or other irritants, or over-cleansing the skin, may damage the skin barrier and lead to capillary dilation and redness. It is recommended to use mild, non-irritating products and gently cleanse while maintaining skin hydration. Laser therapy, performed under a doctor's advice, can also be effective—targeted laser light improves circulation and reduces dilated capillaries. The typical reference cost for laser treatment is 2,000–5,000 RMB per session, with noticeable improvement usually appearing in 1–2 months. Possible side effects include heat sensation, redness, and swelling.

3. Poor Diet

Long-term consumption of spicy or irritating foods, or an unbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients, may impair skin health and worsen facial redness. A balanced diet with adequate vitamin intake and reduced consumption of irritants is recommended. Microneedling treatment, administered under medical guidance, may also help—by stimulating the skin with fine needles to promote collagen production and reduce redness. The typical reference cost for microneedling is 1,500–4,000 RMB per session, with improvement usually observed in 1–2 months. Possible side effects include pain, redness, and swelling.

4. Rosacea

Rosacea may be triggered by genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, or other causes. Chronic inflammation increases vascular reactivity in the face, potentially leading to visible blood vessels. Symptoms often include facial redness and discomfort. Under medical supervision, topical medications such as metronidazole gel, erythromycin ointment, or clindamycin hydrochloride gel may be prescribed for treatment.

5. Telangiectasia

Telangiectasia is primarily associated with genetic factors and environmental irritation. Facial capillaries become dilated and vessel walls thin, resulting in visible redness. Symptoms may include red patches and itching. Treatment under medical direction may include oral medications such as diosmin tablets, thalidomide tablets, or enalapril maleate tablets.

Additionally, sun protection is important in daily life. Avoid prolonged direct sun exposure to minimize UV damage and maintain healthy skin.