Preventing facial spider veins

Q:  I tend to get broken capillaries on my face.  I know I can get the existing ones zapped with a laser, but how can I prevent them in the first place?

A:  there is no guaranteed way to prevent broken capillaries, but NYC-based dermatologist Steven Victor, M.D., passed along these tips for keeping dilated capillaries under control.  His Rx:  ●  Treat your skin gently.  Don’t scrub your face, but do apply a sunscreen daily since UV rays can damage elasticity.  ●  Keep your face cool.  (Heat dilates capillaries.)  stay away from hot tubs, saunas, spicy foods and hot beverages.  ●  Go easy with Retin-A and retinols—they may help prevent wrinkles but they also thin the skin, which can result in more visible veins.

A little pampering also may be helpful.  Magda Lenski, owner of the Ula Day Spa, in NYC, suggests using a treatment containing vitamin K.  vitamin K has been shown to help strengthen blood vessels, which may help minimize breakage.  Try a cream such as DDF Vitamin k Cream (at Sephora or call 877-737-4672).  Or try Eris Forte Inter Ampoules for Dilated Capillaried, a serum applied under moisturizer (available at Ula Day Spa, 212-343-2376).  Whatever vitamin K product you choose, it will do little good unless you follow Dr. Victor’s guidelines as well. – Carol Straley

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