Some finer or more fragile skins tend to be susceptible to particular ailments, depending on external aggressions (climate, pollution…). Small blood vessels can even be very noticeable, whether on the forehead, nose, or chin: this is what is referred to as couperose. Laser treatment can help in overcoming this condition.
What is couperose?
Couperose, or rosacea, is a skin disease that affects small blood vessels. These are located on the central part of the face, and their visibility can quickly become unsightly. This phenomenon is quite different from juvenile acne and can manifest from the age of 25. It primarily affects women with fair skin, peaking at ages 40 and 50. Men who are affected often present severe forms of rosacea and are generally over 50. This condition is described as progressive.
While the exact origin of the disease remains a great mystery, research is exploring environmental causes, genetic factors, the presence of mites on the face, or an abnormal reaction of blood vessels to heat. However, some factors can encourage its development, such as sun exposure, wind, sudden temperature changes, strong emotions, hormonal factors, alcohol, or intense physical exercise.
How to treat couperose?
There are several types of lasers depending on the type of blood vessels to be treated. It is essential to understand which type of blood vessel the respective laser will be effective for. The vascular laser targets the blood contained within the blood vessel. A preliminary free consultation is recommended to ensure that your skin has no contraindications for the laser treatment.
Dilation of the blood vessels can become bothersome in everyday life. It is not easy to accept such redness for one’s self-esteem. In the case of couperose, the blood vessels are well-defined and persistently visible on the face, neck, and décolletage. The vascular laser will act to destroy the blood vessel through its intravascular coagulation system. This may involve simple coagulation or purpura mode. The latter leads to complete destruction of the vessel, allowing blood to diffuse under the skin. A blue mark appears and then fades a few days after the treatment.
What does a vascular laser session involve?
Depending on the area to be treated, the session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. The laser centre is equipped with a skin cooling system to anesthetise the skin while the laser shots are administered. A soothing cream will be applied at the end of the session. Depending on the vascular lesions, between 1 and 4 sessions will be recommended, with a 4-week interval between each. Additionally, maintenance sessions every two years will be necessary. Remember to avoid sun exposure after the sessions.
Are there any contraindications to consider?
The vascular laser is not performed on pregnant women, patients undergoing photosensitising treatment, or those with inflammatory dermatological diseases. The laser in simple coagulation mode has few side effects, aside from some redness or swelling lasting a few days. The purpura laser may result in significant bruising but proves to be very effective for conditions like erythrosis.
Do not hesitate to contact a professional if your redness is causing you distress. A preliminary appointment will address your concerns and objectives.
