Is It Normal for Facial Telangiectasia to Get Darker After KTP Laser Treatment?

Question

I had KTP laser treatment (Iridex Diolite long pulsed - 532nm) for facial veins on my cheeks and nose, done 4 days ago by a reputable dermatologist in a clinical setting. I had some thin scabbing/crusting along the veins that were treated that is starting to fall off, but the veins underneath appear much darker than they were initially. Is this normal? Will they disappear? Can I do anyting to speed up the process? Many thanks

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, this is a normal side effect of the KTP laser. The vessels can change from a red to a more bluish appearance which is a good response to the treatment. The vessels will slowly dissipate over the next few days and should improve or disappear. Keep the areas sun protected with SPF 30 with zinc oxide and plain petroleum jelly to speed up healing. I hope this helps.

Martie Gidon, MD, FRCPC, FAAD · Answer

You may have some postinflammatory redness which is normal after your laser treatment. Be very gentle with your skin and do not pick. It takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the redness to fade. Often, more than one treatment is needed to fade the veins. Avoid the sun to prevent brown spots. See your dermatologist again in 3 weeks.

Is It Normal for Facial Telangiectasia to Get Darker After KTP Laser Treatment?

Answers (2)