IPL Red Thread Vein Treatments
We offer professional IPL treatment for thread and spider veins at our Kensington and Wimbledon clinics in Central London. Get in touch with Eden Skin Clinic today, and we will book you in with a specialist for an IPL thread vein treatment consultation and patch test.
What is IPL Red Thread Vein Treatment?
Red thread veins (also known as broken capillaries, spider veins or spider naevi) are tiny, damaged veins in the skin itself. They appear as red or purple lines, often in the form of thin branches or spider cobwebs – hence their name.
Thread veins are very common and often appear on the face, around the nose, cheeks and on the chest. Although harmless, our clients usually want them removed for cosmetic reasons.
The light is attracted to the target chromophore oxy-haemoglobin in the blood. As the light is absorbed by the blood in the vessels, a heat reaction is caused which coagulates (thickens) the blood and destroys protein in the wall of the vessel. The vessel then breaks down and the debris is removed by the body’s natural waste disposal system.
Intense pulsed light, or IPL, is a safe, precise, and effective way of treating thread veins with minimal effect on the surrounding skin. The earlier you start treatment, the easier it is to remove them.
Initial IPL Thread Vein Consultation
At your initial IPL thread vein consultation, one of our skincare experts will examine your skin. After assessing your skin, they will discuss any suitable thread vein treatment options with you. If you have any questions, please ask us! Our team are fully trained experts and here to make you feel at ease.
We will then carry out a skin patch test. This test is for your wellbeing and safety, and we cannot give you IPL thread vein treatment without it, even if you have had previous IPL thread vein treatments elsewhere. After 24/48 hours have passed since the skin patch test, you may book an appointment.
If we recommend that you have more than one IPL thread vein treatment, we will leave around four weeks (30 days) between each visit. It is important to avoid the sun during IPL thread vein treatment and for 30 days afterwards. Because of this, it is important that you let us know at your initial consultation if you are going on holiday. This way, we can plan your appointments around it.
Our IPL thread vein equipment can treat skin types 1-4 on the Fitzpatrick classification, 4 being light brown skins which tan easily and burn minimally. If you are extremely tanned, we will wait until your tan has faded, including fake tan.
Your IPL Thread Vein Appointment
IPL treatments for thread veins are quick, and a small area usually takes just 20-30 minutes to treat. This includes preparing the skin pre-treatment and any aftercare procedures.
First, we cleanse the affected area with a gentle cleanser using tepid water to remove any makeup or dirt. We then apply a room temperature ultrasound gel to the skin. You will also be asked to wear protective eye goggles.
Clients usually describe IPL thread vein treatment as uncomfortable rather than painful. Many clients say the treatment feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin for a brief second, followed by a feeling of warmth. Occasionally clients feel a similar sensation to mild sunburn or windburn which is short lived. When the vessel has been targeted it will either flash, or pulse a blue colour, or completely disappear.
The IPL thread vein treatment itself only lasts a few minutes. After it is complete, we apply a soothing room temperature aloe vera gel followed by sunscreen. Avoiding sun exposure during and after IPL treatment is essential, so please make sure to always wear a high SPF. If you have to spend a prolonged period outside after your IPL thread vein treatment, we recommend wearing a hat and covering up any exposed skin. Please try and seek shade.
After Your IPL Thread Vein Treatment
A little redness similar to sunburn is usual after the IPL thread vein treatment. Occasionally clients experience slight swelling, which usually goes after 24-48 hours. Veins can become darker in colour, and sometimes slight crusting disappears after 7 to 10 days. Every individual client’s response to IPL thread vein removal is different, however you will soon heal.
After IPL thread vein treatment at our Kensington or Wimbledon clinics, we recommend avoiding showering, taking a hot bath or using a sauna for the rest of the day. For the next 24-48 hours, it is important to wash using only tepid water.
Avoid any friction or rubbing on the treated area, including blowing your nose if your face has been treated. We also ask that you avoid strenuous exercise, spicy food or alcohol for two days after IPL thread vein treatment.
We Also Offer…
Here at Eden Skin Clinic, we have various treatments to help you achieve the skin you’ve always wanted. To find out more, book a consultation at our Kensington or Wimbledon clinic today.
IPL Rosacea Treatments
Our specialist IPL treatments can also help treat the symptoms of rosacea. Cases of redness and uneven skin tone can be treated in as little as one session. While rosacea cannot be completely cured, our IPL laser treatment can be the ideal way to alleviate symptoms.
Laser & IPL Skin Rejuvenation
Reduce the signs of ageing and any excess pigmentation with IPL for skin rejuvenation. Skin will be left plump and smooth after treatment, giving it a fresh and vibrant appearance that you can enjoy.
IPL Skin Pigmentation Treatments
In cases of unwanted pigmentation, age spots or freckles resulting from sun exposure or ageing, IPL laser treatment can help. With state-of-the-art IPL pigmentation machines, we can treat skin types 1-4 on the Fitzpatrick classification.
IPL Thread Vein Treatment Costs
If you are suffering from red thread veins or spider veins, we are here to help! Please get in touch with us today so we can assess your skin and provide you with a bespoke treatment plan.
If you are ready to get booked in, please fill out our online consultation form. One of our advanced skincare experts will get you booked so we can treat you quickly.
You may also call either our Kensington or Wimbledon clinics, and a member of the team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
To see more information on our Wimbledon and Kensington clinics please see the individual price lists. Prices start from £50.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? If you would like to find out more, you can get in touch with us, and a friendly member of our team will gladly assist you.
Please read our terms and conditions here.
What else can IPL treat?
IPL can be used to treat a range of different skin conditions, including pigmentation and rosacea. It can also be used for hair removal and skin rejuvenation.
Does IPL hurt?
No, IPL does not hurt. Many of our clients find it mildly uncomfortable due to a snapping feeling. This lasts only a few seconds, and then the treatment is complete.
Does IPL work immediately?
IPL starts working immediately after treatment. However, it may take days or even weeks to see results, depending on the severity of your skin condition and the size of the area treated. In some cases, you may be asked to return for a course of treatment rather than a single session.
How many IPL treatments are needed for red thread vein removal?
Depending on the size, age and colour of your thread veins, they may need three to six appointments to disappear completely. Larger, older veins take longer to break down and usually flash purple in colour before disappearing.
Small thread veins are usually removed immediately, although it varies from client to client and can take 2-3 weeks to see the final result.
The treated red thread veins should not return. However, new ones may develop in the future. These can also be treated using IPL for thread veins.