How Does a 980 nm Diode Laser Work for Vascular Removal?
Targeted absorption by hemoglobin
The 980 nm wavelength is well absorbed by oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin inside abnormal blood vessels.
When the laser energy is delivered, hemoglobin preferentially absorbs the light rather than surrounding skin tissue.
Selective photothermolysis (key mechanism)
Absorbed light energy is converted into heat, raising the temperature inside the vessel only.
Blood temperature rises rapidly
Vessel wall proteins coagulate
The vessel collapses and seals
This process is called selective photothermolysis, meaning:
destroy the target (blood vessel) without damaging nearby skin.
Vessel closure and natural absorption
After coagulation:
Blood flow stops in the treated vessel
The body gradually reabsorbs the closed vessel
Visible redness fades over days to weeks
No cutting or injections are required.
What conditions can be treated?
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Facial redness & flushing
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Spider veins / broken capillaries
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Rosacea-related vessels
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Cherry angioma
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Leg telangiectasia
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Nasal vessels
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Vascular pigmentation lesions
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I. Telangiectatic Rosacea (Capillary Dilation)
(Most common)
Appearance: Fine red lines, reticular or branching blood vessels
Common locations: Nasal alae, cheeks, chin
Causes: Thin stratum corneum, impaired skin barrier, chronic irritation (laser/chemical peels )
II. Rosacea-Related Redness (Rosacea)
Appearance: Persistent flushing + visible blood vessels
Accompanied by: Burning, stinging, recurrent exacerbations
Common triggers: Temperature changes, spicy food, alcohol, emotional stress
III. Post-Inflammatory Erythema (Post-Acne Redness)
Appearance: Red marks left after acne clears
Nature: Capillary dilation caused by inflammation
Different from hyperpigmentation (not brown)
IV. Sensitive Skin Redness / Flushing
Appearance: Widespread redness, not necessarily with clearly visible blood vessels
Characteristics: Redness triggered by heat, cold, or emotional fluctuations
Common in: Sensitive skin, those with impaired skin barrier
V. Induced Dermatitis-Related Redness
Appearance: Persistent redness, prominent blood vessels
History: Long-term use of topical
VI. Congenital or Constitutional Redness
Appearance: Present since childhood, thin, fair skin
Blood vessels are close to the surface and easily visible
1. What is laser vascular removal?
Laser vascular removal uses selective photothermolysis to heat hemoglobin inside abnormal blood vessels, causing them to coagulate and close. The body then naturally absorbs the treated vessels over time.
2. Which vascular problems can be treated?
Facial spider veins / telangiectasia
Broken capillaries (nose, cheeks, chin)
Cherry angiomas
Post-acne redness (erythema)
Mild rosacea-related visible vessels
3. How does a 980 nm laser work for vascular removal?
The 980 nm wavelength is well absorbed by hemoglobin. The absorbed energy turns into heat, sealing the vessel from the inside while minimizing damage to surrounding skin.
4. Is laser vascular removal painful?
Most patients feel mild stinging or heat. Discomfort is usually brief and tolerable. Cooling or topical anesthesia can be used if needed.
5. How many sessions are needed?
Small, superficial vessels: 1–2 sessions
Diffuse or recurrent redness: 2–4 sessions
Sessions are typically spaced 3–6 weeks apart
6. When will I see results?
Some vessels disappear immediately
Others fade gradually over 1–4 weeks
Redness continues to improve as the body absorbs treated vessels
7. Is there downtime after treatment?
Downtime is minimal:
Mild redness or swelling: hours to 1–2 days
Tiny scabs (occasionally): fall off naturally
Makeup can usually be applied after 24 hours
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