Facial veins and rosacea are common, affecting up to 16 million Americans, according to the National Rosacea Society.
Redness and discoloration can make you feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. Fortunately, the team led by Dr. Laura Riehm at Skin Deep Laser MD in Fort Worth, TX, can help. We utilize expert therapies, including energy devices and topical medications, to address a range of skin conditions, including facial veins and rosacea.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by skin reddening. Mild cases of rosacea appear as frequent blushing, but over time, the condition is characterized by redness that spreads beyond your cheeks to your forehead and nose. Your ears, chest, and back may also be affected.
Anyone, at any age, can develop rosacea, but it’s most commonly seen in adults aged 30 to 50. Why some people develop rosacea isn’t completely understood, but it seems to have a genetic and environmental basis. What you eat, stress, temperature extremes, certain medications, and some cosmetic procedures may trigger a flare-up.
Types of Rosacea
Rosacea has a few subtypes:
- Papulopustular rosacea involves redness, swelling, and breakouts that look like acne.
- Phymatous rosacea is characterized by reddened, thick skin that has developed a bumpy texture.
- Ocular rosacea causes redness and irritation in your eyes.
Rosacea Symptoms
Your symptoms depend on the severity and type of rosacea. You may experience:
- Redness, flushing, and swollen skin
- Broken blood vessels or spider veins
- Thickening skin, especially on the chin, cheeks, forehead, and ears
- Acne-like breakouts
- Eyes that are reddened, dry, sensitive to light, and bloodshot
Dr. Riehm and her team evaluate your symptoms to determine if your facial veins are related to rosacea and offer treatment regardless of their cause. The redness and skin changes associated with rosacea are incurable, but outbreaks can be managed to reduce severity and frequency.
Rosacea Treatment Options
Dr. Riehm offers conservative treatments for mild cases of rosacea. These include skin emollients and topical serums. If these fail to resolve rosacea outbreaks and visible veins, she may recommend Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments.
This advanced energy technology targets the unwanted vessels within your skin. The powerful pulses of light energy target redness and visible veins, encouraging your body’s natural healing capacity to make them slowly disappear. IPL treatments do not harm the surrounding skin.
IPL treatments for rosacea and veins feel like a rubber band snapping against the skin. After treatment, you may have some additional redness and need to treat your skin gently, including avoiding the sun for a couple of days. You will notice more beautiful skin after just 1-3 sessions.
Why Choose Skin Deep Laser MD for Facial Veins & Rosacea Treatment in Fort Worth?
Skin Deep Laser MD offers care grounded in Dr. Laura S. Riehm’s deep Fort Worth roots and extensive medical training, including her studies at Austin College, Cambridge University, and Baylor College of Medicine. Her background in anesthesiology and years of clinical practice support a safe, comfortable approach for people dealing with facial veins and rosacea. Patients appreciate natural-looking improvements, minimal downtime, advanced technology, and a team supervised directly by Dr. Riehm. You’ll also find honest guidance without pressure or upselling, along with high standards for safety and comfort.
FAQs
What Triggers Facial Veins To Become More Noticeable?
Facial veins often become more visible when the tiny blood vessels beneath the skin widen or weaken. Several factors can contribute, including:
- Sun exposure
- Fluctuating temperatures
- Alcohol
- Spicy foods
- Emotional stress
- Genetics
- Age (and the skin thinning that occurs with it)
- Certain skincare products (include those that contain strong acids or alcohol)
- Intense exercise
- Past facial trauma
People with rosacea may notice facial veins appearing more frequently because chronic inflammation increases the likelihood of broken or enlarged vessels.
Is Rosacea Linked To Other Health Conditions?
Rosacea is primarily a chronic skin concern, but some research suggests possible associations with other conditions.
Studies published by the International Journal of Dermatology and Advances in Therapy show that people with rosacea may experience a higher incidence of migraines and gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux.
While having rosacea does not automatically mean a person will develop additional medical problems, monitoring overall health and discussing symptoms with a clinician can help identify patterns and guide appropriate care for both skin and general wellness.
Is IPL Safe for Darker Skin Tones or Suntanned Skin?
IPL works by targeting pigment and blood vessels, which means darker skin tones require careful assessment. Because IPL energy is attracted to pigment, higher melanin levels can raise the risk of complications such as hyperpigmentation or burns if not properly adjusted. Suntanned skin poses similar challenges, as recent sun exposure temporarily raises melanin levels.
A skilled clinician can determine whether IPL is appropriate or recommend alternative treatments. When used correctly with appropriate settings and safety measures, it can be performed safely across a range of skin types, but evaluation by an experienced provider is essential.
How Long Does Each IPL Session for Facial Veins or Rosacea Usually Take?
Most IPL sessions are surprisingly quick. A typical appointment lasts about 20–30 minutes, depending on the size of the area and the severity of redness or visible veins. The visit includes time for cleansing the skin, applying a cooling gel if needed, and performing the light pulses.
Patients can often return to normal activities directly afterward, although mild redness or warmth may linger briefly. Because the treatment is efficient and noninvasive, many people schedule appointments during short breaks in their day.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help Reduce Flare-Ups?
Simple daily habits can affect how often facial veins and rosacea symptoms appear:
- Protecting the skin from heat and sun
- Avoiding long, hot showers
- Using gentle skincare products
- Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods
- Managing stress through breathing exercises or relaxation techniques
- Using sunscreen consistently
Tracking personal patterns — such as food, weather, or activities — can help identify what makes symptoms worse and guide everyday choices.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you suffer from rosacea and unsightly facial veins, Dr. Riehm and the team at Skin Deep Laser MD can help. Contact our Fort Worth practice at 817.263.7546 to book a consultation and learn about your treatment options.
