2 replies to this topic

[Cameron Sane]

I've known for quite a while that I have broken blood vessels on both sides of my face. They weren't present until Accutane so I'm 99% positive that Accutane is the reason for it. That being the case, I am a little frustrated I went on the drug in the first place because it only "cured" my acne for like a year and now I have blood vessels that apparently can only be removed from laser. I guess I'm just one of those people with a negative experience from Accutane.

Anyways, for those of you who know anything about broken blood vessels/capillaries, help me answer this:

When I put ice of my face for a few minutes and the initial redness goes away, the blood vessels are noticeably less visible. When I work out, the blood vessels are noticeably less visible. Last but not least, being inactive (sleeping) causes them to become less visible.

My reasoning is this:
#1- The ice sort-of acts as an anti-stimulant and lessens blood flow, therefore, less redness.
#2- I have no clue.
#3- My blood flow is considerably lessened from laying down and staying still.

What doesn't make sense to me is that "lessing" blood circulation seems to keep my face less red (which is also unhealthy), but when I work out and increase my blood circulation, my face is less red.
If lessing/inhibiting the amount of blood to my face means less redness, then I will do what it takes and suffer the health risks associated with it (though they should be minimal since I wouldn't be doing this for too long).

Anyways, if anyone has some thought on the subject I'd be glad to hear it. Or if anyone has any recommendations for redness/broken blood vessels, that would be great.

[Shantelle]

Heya

It is common for isotretinoin or retinol to cause increased facial redness, facial flushing, or can even induce Rosacea. Isotretinoin (Accutane etc) can have an inflammatory effect. Broken capillaries are damaged small blood vessels due to inflammation.

Cooling the face helps blood vessels to constrict, therefore redness and inflammation is reduced. Being in a relaxed state like sleeping, generally helps keep inflammation down. Exercising probably just makes you face a little more pink, therefore camoflaguing the broken capillaries temporarilly.

Unfortunetly, if they really bother you there isn't too much you can do except either give it time (some heal, but not always) or seek advice from a specialist laser Derm, e.g. PDL V-Beam laser, Copper bromide laser. You'll need to wait at least 6 months post Accutane to safely have lasering done. Alternatively, you could seek advice from a Derm about medications to make the face less red (by helping constrict blood vessels), but meds won't undo the broken cappillary damage already done.

[Cameron Sane]

I appreciate the reply but I actually knew all of that. I actually found out what I really wanted to know. Which is how laying down makes the face less red and also working out makes the face less red. It's the epinephrine that is released when you work out that makes the face less red.

Thanks anyways