Skin health guide · RDG Clinic

Facial redness and capillary treatment in Riga

A visible vessel is a sign, not a complete diagnosis. The dermatologist determines whether rosacea, isolated telangiectasia, photodamage, or another cause predominates before selecting a device and settings.

Dr. Olga Zaikovska explains the aims of IPL photorejuvenation and what to expect from treatment.
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Video transcript

Hello everyone! I’m Dr. Zaikovska, and today we’ll be performing a photorejuvenation procedure, also known as IPL, on this lovely patient.

It is a seasonal treatment aimed at removing visible vessels and pigmentation and rejuvenating the skin overall.

It can be performed several times for a lasting result. In principle, the effect of the first treatment can already be seen after a couple of weeks.

It does not really require downtime and is available here at Riga Dermatology Group Clinic.

Facial redness and visible capillaries

Diffuse redness and individual vessels need different approaches

Facial redness may reflect flushing, rosacea, sun damage, irritation, inflammation, or medication. Telangiectasias are persistently dilated small vessels, often on the nose and cheeks. Diffuse background redness, visible vessels, and inflammatory lesions may coexist.

Method depends on vessel diameter and depth, skin type, tan, underlying disease, and previous response. IPL treats a broader surface and multiple chromophores, while a vascular laser can target selected vessels more precisely. Not every form of redness responds to light treatment.

Common signs

  • Persistent cheek or nose redness
  • Small red or purple linear vessels
  • Flushing with heat, alcohol, or exercise
  • Burning, sensitivity, or rosacea-like lesions

When to see a dermatologist

When to see a dermatologist

  • Redness is becoming persistent or progressive
  • There are eye symptoms, inflammatory lesions, or pain
  • A visible lesion bleeds or is not a typical capillary
  • You want IPL or laser and need skin type and tan assessed

Accurate diagnosis

How assessment works

The dermatologist examines distribution, vessel type, and surface and asks about flushing triggers, skincare, medicines, and eye symptoms. Dermoscopy helps distinguish vessel from pigment and assess atypical findings. Diagnosis and baseline documentation precede device treatment.

An individual plan

Treatment approach

The plan combines control of the underlying condition, barrier-friendly skincare, and when suitable, IPL or laser matched to the vessel.

Trigger and barrier care

Gentle skincare, SPF, and reducing individual flushing factors can lower background redness and sensitivity.

IPL phototherapy

IPL may suit broader redness and superficial small vessels after skin type and tan assessment.

Vascular laser

Selected deeper or clearly visible vessels may be targeted with an appropriate vascular-laser wavelength.

Long-term control

What to expect

A course is often needed, and results are not absolutely permanent because underlying disease, sun exposure, and new vessel formation continue. Redness, swelling, bruising, crusting, or pigment change can follow treatment; blistering, burns, or scars are less common. Strict sun protection reduces risk.

This information does not replace medical consultation. Seek urgent medical care for sudden, severe, or rapidly progressive symptoms.

Dermatologists

Frequently asked questions

Are vessels removed permanently?

A treated vessel may close, but new ones can form over time, especially with rosacea or sun exposure.

Is IPL or laser better?

It depends on whether diffuse redness or a vessel of a particular diameter and depth predominates.

Can treatment be done with a tan?

A recent tan usually increases burn and pigment risk, so treatment is postponed.

Treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis

After assessment, the dermatologist will explain the appropriate plan and costs. There is no single fixed treatment price because it depends on the diagnosis and therapy required.

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