Vascular conditions
Vascular conditions, such as thread veins, blood spots and erythema, cause a range of visible skin irregularities. Whilst these conditions are very common, they can have an impact on self-confidence. We offer targeted treatments to help you achieve clearer, calmer, more even-toned skin
What are vascular lesions?
Vascular lesions are visible irregularities in the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) close to the surface of the skin. Although generally harmless, they affect the clarity and texture of the complexion, making the skin appear flushed and blotchy.
They commonly appear as fine red or purple lines and can become more noticeable over time, particularly on areas like the cheeks, nose and chin. At Hannah London, we specialise in advanced, non-invasive treatments that safely target and reduce the appearance of these visible capillaries. Our medical-led approach combines precision technology with luxury care to help restore an even, radiant and healthy-looking complexion.
Common types of vascular conditions
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Thread or spider veins (telangiectasias)
Thread veins, which are also known as spider veins or telangiectasias, are small, dilated blood vessels that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. They often resemble fine red or purple lines, branching out like a spider’s web. Thread veins are commonly found on the face, particularly around the nose and cheeks, and on the legs.
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Rosacea
This chronic vascular condition is characterised by persistent facial redness, flushing, visible capillaries and sometimes bumps or sensitivity. Rosacea commonly affects the cheeks, nose and forehead.
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Erythema (including post-acne erythema)
Erythema is general redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow in the capillaries. It can occur due to skin injury, infection or inflammation.
Post-acne erythema presents as red or pink marks that are visible after acne lesions have healed. Rather than scars, these are the remaining dilated blood vessels.
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Campbell de Morgan spots (cherry angiomas or blood spots)
Campbell de Morgan spots, also known as cherry angiomas, or simply blood spots, are small, round, bright red or purple domed bumps on the skin. They are harmless collections of tiny blood vessels that often appear with age, usually on the torso, arms, legs or face.
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Vascular birthmarks (port wine stains)
Vascular birthmarks are made up of excess or abnormal blood vessels in the skin. One of the most common types is the port wine stain, which appears as a flat, reddish-purple patch that can deepen in colour over time.
What causes vascular lesions?
Vascular lesions occur when blood vessels dilate, become damaged or develop in greater numbers than usual. They are common and usually harmless. Vascular conditions are influenced by genetic and environmental factors, and often become more noticeable with age.
Some people are naturally more prone to developing vascular lesions due to their individual genetics. Conditions such as rosacea and thread veins can run in families.
Sun exposure (particularly UV light) can influence vascular conditions as it dilates capillaries, causing them to weaken over time.
Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy, menopause or whilst taking certain medications, can cause capillaries to dilate.
Temperature, strenuous exercise, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, stress and some skincare treatments can cause temporary flushing or dilation of blood vessels.
How to get rid of vascular lesions?
At Hannah London our qualified practitioners can offer many types of treatment, following a personalised assessment of the best combination for each individual patient.
Treatments for vascular lesions
At Hannah London, we offer treatments to gently reduce and remove vascular lesions to achieve clearer skin and help patients recover their self-confidence.
Clinic based treatments
Intense pulsed light
HIFU
Intense pulsed light (IPL) uses targeted light energy to heat and break down blood vessels, which the body then naturally absorbs. With IPL, vascular lesions gradually become less visible.
Topical medication
Skin peels
Prescribed topical medications that are applied as gels, creams or solutions can calm and soothe the symptoms of rosacea. For example, Soolantra is a topical cream applied once per day that is used to provide both immediate relief and long-term management of rosacea.
Pro Yellow laser
Microneedling
The Pro Yellow Laser emits a yellow light at a wavelength of 577 nanometres, which is absorbed by the haemoglobin in your skin. This targeted treatment shrinks blood vessels without damaging the surrounding tissue.
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Further Reading
Information from the NHS about rosacea .
Information from the British Skin Foundation about rosacea .
‘The effects of physical appearance on self-esteem when you have a visible difference’ from Changing Faces .
At-home Self Care Treatments
Our practitioners offer advice on at-home treatments for vascular conditions, including:
Meet one of our doctors for a consultation to discuss your treatment options
Welcome to
Hannah London
We’re a team of aesthetic and medical specialists lead by Dr Kaywaan Khan. We provide award-winning facial, body and hair treatments to clients across London.
Our ethos is to offer cutting-edge treatments in a luxurious setting, ensuring that you leave our clinic feeling pampered and looking fabulous.
