Thread Veins & Visible Blood Vessels
Understanding Thread Veins, Broken Capillaries, Spider Veins & Blood Spots
Thread veins and visible blood vessels are extremely common and usually harmless. They can appear as fine red or purple lines, small clusters of vessels or individual red spots, particularly around the nose, cheeks and chin.
At The Chelmsford Skin Clinic, we assess and treat a range of superficial vascular concerns, including thread veins, broken capillaries, spider veins and blood spots.
Complimentary consultations are available if you're unsure what your concern is or whether it can be treated.
What Are Thread Veins?
Thread veins, medically known as telangiectasia, are tiny blood vessels that have become permanently dilated and visible close to the surface of the skin.
They may appear individually or form small networks of red, pink, purple or blue vessels. They are particularly common around the nose and cheeks but can also develop on the chin, décolletage and legs.
Although generally harmless, they can become more noticeable with age.
Broken Capillaries & Nose Veins
“Broken capillaries” is a common term used to describe tiny visible facial blood vessels. In many cases, the vessels aren't actually broken but have become permanently dilated.
The sides of the nose and nostrils are particularly prone to these vessels because the capillaries sit close to the skin's surface.
Once established, skincare alone is unlikely to make these vessels disappear.
Spider Veins & Spider Naevi
Spider veins consist of small visible vessels that can form a branching or web-like pattern.
A spider naevus usually has a central red point with several tiny vessels extending outwards. These are commonly harmless and can occur on both the face and body.
Blood Spots & Cherry Angiomas
Blood spots, also known as cherry angiomas, are small benign vascular growths that appear bright red, cherry-red or purple.
They become increasingly common with age and frequently develop across the chest, stomach, back and arms.
They may remain extremely small or gradually become larger and slightly raised.
Learn more about Skin Blemish Removal →
Why Do Thread Veins Develop?
There isn't always one specific cause. Common contributing factors include:
Genetics – some people are naturally more susceptible.
Sun exposure – cumulative UV damage can make superficial vessels more noticeable.
Ageing – changes within the skin can make underlying vessels easier to see.
Rosacea and facial flushing – persistent flushing can be associated with visible facial vessels.
Hormonal changes – including pregnancy and menopause.
Temperature extremes – repeated dilation and contraction of the vessels may contribute.
Thread Veins or Rosacea?
Thread veins and rosacea are related but different concerns.
Thread veins are individual visible blood vessels, whereas rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause persistent redness, flushing, sensitivity and visible vessels.
You can therefore have thread veins without having rosacea.
If your main concern is widespread redness rather than individual vessels, visit our Rosacea & Facial Redness page.
What About Thread Veins on the Legs?
Small thread and spider veins can also develop across the thighs, calves and ankles.
Leg veins require more careful assessment because not every visible leg vessel is simply a cosmetic concern.
Larger, raised veins or those associated with aching, pain or swelling may require medical or vascular assessment rather than cosmetic treatment.
Can You Prevent Thread Veins?
Genetics and ageing mean thread veins cannot always be prevented, but looking after your skin can help reduce some contributing factors.
Daily broad-spectrum SPF, avoiding excessive sun exposure and using gentle skincare are particularly important for people prone to facial redness.
If you experience frequent flushing or rosacea, understanding and managing your individual triggers can also be beneficial.
Treating Thread Veins
Once a blood vessel has become permanently visible, skincare cannot physically remove it.
At The Chelmsford Skin Clinic, suitable superficial vessels can be treated using thermocoagulation radiofrequency technology.
A very fine probe delivers controlled heat directly to the unwanted vessel, causing it to coagulate and collapse. The body then gradually clears the treated vessel.
Treatment can be used for suitable:
Thread Veins • Broken Capillaries • Nose Veins • Spider Veins • Spider Naevi • Blood Spots • Cherry Angiomas
Treatment is generally quick, with most clients describing a brief heat or stinging sensation.
What Happens Afterwards?
Some redness following treatment is normal, and mild swelling or small areas of crusting can occasionally develop.
Some vessels show an immediate improvement, while others gradually fade as the area heals.
The number of treatments required depends on the size, depth, location and number of vessels being treated.
Thread Vein Consultations in Chelmsford
If you have a visible blood vessel but aren't sure exactly what it is, you don't need to diagnose it yourself.
Our skin practitioners can assess the area, establish whether it is suitable for treatment and explain the options available.
Complimentary consultation • No obligation • Treatment available where suitable