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Thread Veins (Telangectasia)
What are Thread Veins?
Thread veins, or Telangiectasia, are permanently dilated capillaries, and not ‘broken capillaries’, as many people tend to call them. The very thin walls (just one cell thick) of the fine facial capillaries dilate and constrict constantly throughout life to regulate the body’s temperature. As we age, they lose their elasticity and the ability to constrict, often becoming permanently dilated and visible through the skin.
What are the causes of Thread Veins?
There are numerous causes for thread veins including:
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ageing
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hereditary and genetic causes
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pregnancy
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the rubbing of spectacles
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smoking
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energetic sports
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temperature extremes and harsh weather exposure
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hormones
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skin fragility
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and even constipation
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Although thread veins are harmless, many people wish to get rid of them as they can be associated with ageing, mistaken for blushing or even considered a sign of alcoholism.