Vascular laser

Information about vascular laser

Vascular laser systems emit light at specific wavelengths that selectively target haemoglobin, the protein responsible for the red colour of blood. The laser light penetrates the superficial layers of the skin and is converted into heat, leading to photocoagulation of the targeted lesion without damaging healthy blood vessels or surrounding skin and tissues.

Once coagulated, the treated blood vessel gradually shrinks and is reabsorbed by the body until it disappears. Depending on the extent and characteristics of the lesion, a variable number of sessions or complementary treatments may be required.

Vascular lasers can be used as standalone treatments, combined with other laser systems or light-based devices, or integrated with medical or aesthetic treatments to optimise outcomes.

Their versatility makes them an essential component of treatment protocols for conditions such as acne (including active inflammatory outbreaks), rosacea, psoriasis, angiomas, spider veins and reticular varicose veins.
They are also used in the management of atopic dermatitis, couperose, dilated veins, birthmarks, scars, red or purple stretch marks, and traumatic or post-surgical bruises.

Laser treatment for spider veins

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small reddish or purplish vascular lesions with a web-like appearance. Due to their superficial location, they are easily visible through the skin.

They most commonly appear on the legs, although they can also be seen on the face and on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Clinically, they are considered mild forms of varicose veins, but they can have a significant aesthetic impact, which is often the main reason patients seek treatment.

Spider veins may sometimes be associated with underlying conditions such as rosacea, xeroderma pigmentosum or chronic venous insufficiency.

Vascular laser treatment is usually the treatment of choice for spider veins, as these abnormal vessels are located more superficially than other types of varicose veins, have a smaller calibre and are therefore more difficult to treat with injections.

Since spider veins often coexist with reticular varicose veins, it may be recommended to combine vascular laser treatment with other techniques, such as sclerotherapy.
More information about varicose vein treatment.

Vascular laser treatment for rapid bruise resolution

Dr Pablo Boixeda, Head of the Laser Unit at Grupo Pedro Jaén, has developed a technique using pulsed dye laser technology to support rapid bruise resolution. This approach is particularly useful after surgical procedures or traumatic injuries, not only to minimise aesthetic sequelae but also to support overall patient recovery.

This laser emits energy that selectively targets oxyhaemoglobin — the component responsible for the red colour of blood — without affecting surrounding tissues. The treatment induces coagulation of the blood within the bruise, allowing rapid reabsorption, often within approximately 24 hours.

No specific preparation is required, and in most cases topical anaesthesia is not necessary. Session duration depends on the size of the bruise being treated, but treatments are generally very brief. For example, bruises following a facial lifting procedure can typically be treated in around five minutes.

This procedure is indicated for bruises caused by trauma or accidents, surgical interventions, and aesthetic treatments involving needles and/or cannulas.

“In general, the best outcomes are achieved by combining different therapeutic options and initiating treatment at an early stage”

More information

Authorship and references for the information on this page

Grupo Pedro Jaén is a medical group founded more than three decades ago with the aim of providing medical, surgical and aesthetic solutions related to skin health and appearance. Led by Dr Pedro Jaén, the group has a highly specialised medical team that covers every area of care with top-level specialists, carries out extensive training activities, is a leader in medical research, and operates several clinics in Madrid, from which it offers the highest standards of care and clinical excellence to all patients.

In the Grupo Pedro Jaén Press Room you can find information, advice and news related to dermatology, aesthetic medicine, trichology and general health. The group’s journals are also shared through an online platform, along with updates on the activity and media appearances of our clinics and healthcare professionals.