Most commonly found in the nose and cheek area, these small red or pink ‘threads’ are part of the extensive vein network that carries the blood supply of the face. When the walls of these tiny veins narrow and widen too quickly, they may tear, allowing blood to seep out and visibly mark the area of damage. Individuals with dehydrated, dry and sensitive skin often have thinner tissue, which allows more trauma to the veins. While heredity plays a part (and fair, thin–skinned people are most prone), broken capillaries are most often caused by environmental factors such as:
- Extreme temperature changes
- Sunburn
- Windburn
- Trauma (i.e. squeezing pimples)
- Constant pressure (i.e. wearing glasses)
- Smoking
- High alcohol consumption