Why did the spider veins on my face return after IPL?

Hi Clakah.  There are two explanations.  The first is that the IPL (NOT a laser) being used is not the ideal way to treat facial veins.  Long pulsed Nd:Yg (0164) or KTP (532) lasers will do a much better job of permanently getting rid of facial veins.  With that said, some facial veins can be very resistant, especially those on the nose.  To see examples of patients that have been treated with the 532 and 1064 wavelengths at our office in Los Angeles, click on the link below.  

A combination approach is needed to get improvement with veins on the face.  I recommend ProYellow, Excel V or VBeam. See a expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Thank you for your question Clakah. I understand your concern. An IPL photofacial is an
outstanding treatment for facial rejuvenation. It works by using bright light
to target and destroy pigment and redness in the skin. It is difficult to make an assessment without a
formal exam in the office where I can directly view the skin. However, I hope
the information provided here is useful.IPL and other vascular lasers work to address redness and broken capillaries. I find that broken capillaries on the face, particularly those on or around the nose, are particularly stubborn. In such cases multiple treatments are required. Additionally they tend to recur; therefore, maintenance treatments will likely be required. Other vascular lasers such as KTP and pulsed dye also work for such broken capillaries. Nd:YAG should be used with caution on the face because it penetrates deeper into the skin and has an increased risk for discoloration and scarring. Usually such broken capillaries are superficial and Nd:YAG is not required.Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations. Good luck!