What is couperose skin?

Couperose skin is a condition caused by weakened blood vessels in the face, usually on the cheeks and nose. When we are exposed to heat, the cold, different emotions of stimulants (e.g. alcohol), our skin responds by dilating the blood vessels in our face. This allows blood to flow through them and then closing when needed. However, if these vessels are weakened, they can struggle to close causing longer-lasting redness.

What are the symptoms of couperose skin?

The main symptom of couperose skin is the appearance of small dilated capillaries, which on the face form a kind of spider web in characteristic red tones. Alongside these visible blood vessels, people with couperose skin may also have red spots on their face as well as tight, dry skin.

What causes couperose skin?

The causes of couperose skin are not fully known. However, medical specialists point out that there are certain risk factors that favour their appearance as:

• abrupt temperature changes;
• stress;
• menopause;
• consumption of corticosteroids;
• tobacco and alcohol;
• sun damage;
• gender (women are more likely to be prone to couperose skin).

Can couperose skin be prevented?

To prevent couperose skin, it can help to avoid abrupt temperature changes. It is important to moisturise your skin well and to always use sunscreen, even in winter.

What is the treatment for couperose skin?

The best treatment for couperose skin has been found to be intense pulsed light (IPL). IPL is the same treatment used for treating rosacea and removing hair. A special gel is applied to the skin and the IPL machine moves over the treatment area. The laser light passes through the skin without damaging it. The effect of the laser heat reaches the veins to be treated, causing blood to clot and close. This way, the gradual elimination of the dilated blood vessels is achieved.