Laser options
and downtime.
Clarity II
Downtime: 1-3 days hours (mild redness,
occasional bruising attreatment sites)
laser & skin rejuvenation
Spider Veins &
Broken Capillaries
Spider veins and broken capillaries are dilated superficial blood vessels that become visible through the skin as collagen support weakens and sun damage accumulates — distinct from rosacea-related redness, though the two can coexist.
Dr. Martin uses the Clarity II dual-wavelength laser to address them, selecting the appropriate wavelength based on vessel depth: the 755nm alexandrite for vessels sitting close to the surface, the 1064nm Nd:YAG for those placed slightly deeper. Laser energy is absorbed by the pigment in the blood cells, heating the vessel wall until it collapses, and the body clears the treated vessel over the following days and weeks. Sessions typically run 20 to 40 minutes with mild redness and occasional bruising at treated sites resolving within a few days. Individual vessels often clear in one to two sessions. New vessels can develop over time with continued sun exposure, so Dr. Martin builds periodic maintenance into the long-term plan for patients with an underlying vascular tendency.
What causes spider veins and broken capillaries on the face?
Facial spider veins and broken capillaries — technically called telangiectasias — develop when small blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate and lose their ability to constrict back to normal size. Sun exposure is a major contributor, as UV damage weakens the vessel walls and the surrounding collagen support over time. Genetics plays a role too, as does chronic flushing from rosacea, alcohol, or temperature extremes. At our practice, we assess whether the vessels are an isolated concern or part of a broader vascular pattern — like rosacea — because that influences which treatment approach makes the most sense.
How does laser treatment clear these vessels?
Laser energy is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin — the pigment in red blood cells — which heats the vessel wall and causes it to collapse. The body then clears the treated vessel over the following days and weeks. The key to doing this safely is using a wavelength that's absorbed by the vessel without generating excess heat in the surrounding skin. At our practice, we use the Clarity II dual-wavelength laser for this purpose — its 755nm alexandrite wavelength targets superficial vessels, while the 1064nm Nd:YAG reaches vessels seated slightly deeper. Selecting the right wavelength for the right vessel is what makes the treatment precise and safe.
How many sessions will it take to clear my vessels?
Most individual vessels — particularly smaller telangiectasias — can be significantly cleared in one to two sessions. Larger or more numerous vessels may require additional treatment, and patients with widespread vascular patterns often benefit from a multi-session plan. At our practice, we set realistic expectations at consultation based on what we see — including vessel size, depth, and distribution. It's also worth understanding that new vessels can develop over time, particularly with continued sun exposure, so periodic maintenance is something we build into the long-term plan for patients with a vascular predisposition.
Is the treatment uncomfortable, and what is recovery like?
Most patients describe the sensation as a brief snap — similar to a rubber band — at each pulse. The Clarity II incorporates a cooling mechanism that significantly improves comfort during treatment, and sessions are typically completed in 20 to 40 minutes. Afterward, some redness is expected and usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Occasional mild bruising at treated vessel sites is possible and resolves within a few days. At our practice, we go over what to expect in detail before treatment so there are no surprises, and we recommend sun avoidance and SPF during the healing period.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.
