If you suffer from unsightly discoloration on your nose, cheeks and forehead, there are a number of causes of red veins and dark spots on the face. But these signs of aging don't have to be permanent. Whether you are removing lesions formed by large blood vessels or brown spots, it's best to investigate the safest ways to remove these skin blemishes before you undergo any treatments to help turn back the hands of time.

Laser

Lasers can remove small broken blood vessels that cause the red veins in the face as well as brown age spots, freckles and other dark spots. Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Melton reports that a small hand-held tool emits light beams over the affected areas that destroy the discolored cells on the face. The dark brown or red spots absorb the light and decompose, leaving healthy cells in place to grow back. There are few risks associated with laser treatments. Some people experience mild swelling or redness that usually dissipates within 24 hours. The treatment is administered with no anesthesia because it is painless.

Sclerotherapy

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Although sclerotherapy requires several visits to remove red spider veins on the face, doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology report that it has an 80 to 90 percent success rate, causing the discoloration to fade over the period of a couple months 1. A solution of sodium chloride is injected directly into the area, causing it to swell. As blood flows to heal the area, new skin cells replace the discolored cells. Usually, a mild sedative such as lidocaine is mixed in with the solution to numb the area. Side effects of the treatment include stinging at the site of the injection, muscle cramps or raised red bumps.

Electrodesiccation

Electrodesiccation primarily is used on dark spots, often to remove moles and other spots that are sometimes associated with melanoma. The procedure involves inserting an electrical impulse over the spot and killing the affected skin cells. There is a slim blade connected to the tool that is used to cut out the dried skin. A local anesthesia sometimes is used if the spot is large. Electrodesiccation is performed on an outpatient basis and patients are dismissed after about an hour or two. Insurance companies often cover the procedure when there is a threat of cancer present in the spots. Side effects include a scar that heals over time because the incision is so tiny. Patients often feel an itching sensation following the procedure.