Telangiectasia are small, red, purple or blue blood vessels found mainly along the surface of the face (cheeks, nose and chin areas), upper chest and neck. Similar looking veins found on the legs are referred to as spider veins. Anything that causes the face to flush or blush can produce telangiectasia. Heredity, sun-damage, aging, hot or spicy foods, exercise, emotions, hormones, certain medications, alcohol use, cortisone medications and other rare skin diseases are some of the contributing factors. Also, people with a skin condition called rosacea frequently develop telangiectasia. It is important to note that the presence of telangiectasia is associated with other medical abnormalities, so it’s essential to provide your doctor with an accurate family/medical history. These blood vessels do not serve any essential function, so removing them can give an improved cosmetic appearance. Depending on the location of the blood vessels, and if a dermatologist determines that you are a suitable candidate, pulsed-dye lasers and pulsed green lasers are often used to treat this condition. Multiple treatment sessions may be required. Use of a self-tanning product or sheer foundation can help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of these small superficial blood vessels.