Treatment of vascular lesions with MeDioStar Asclepion diode laser

Cutaneous vascular lesions occur through dilation or fragility of capillaries and small blood vessels in the skin. The most common are telangiectasias – those very fine red vessels, popularly called “spider veins”, which are observed especially on the wings of the nose, cheeks or chin. On the face, the diffuse redness known as couperose (often associated with rosacea) gives the complexion a persistent “flushed” appearance, difficult to camouflage with cosmetic products alone. Hemangiomas are benign vascular formations, slightly raised or flat, cherry-red in color, which can persist for years. On the lower limbs, fine red vessels with a diameter of 1–3 mm are frequently observed, located especially on the calves, which can become an aesthetic concern with the arrival of warm weather.

These manifestations are not usually dangerous, but they can generate visual discomfort, can accentuate the uneven appearance of the skin and can influence self-esteem. Clinical evaluation establishes the type of lesion, approximate depth and size, to correctly choose treatment parameters or, if necessary, a combination of technologies.

MeDioStar uses a wavelength of 940 nm, which is preferentially absorbed by hemoglobin – the pigment inside red blood cells. Light absorption transforms energy into heat and causes controlled coagulation of the target vessel. The vessel walls collapse, and the body naturally “cleans” the inactive structure in the following weeks through its own tissue remodeling mechanisms. Surrounding tissues remain protected because energy is delivered directionally, and the 360° cooling system of the handpiece maintains the skin surface at a comfortable temperature throughout the procedure.

A session begins with makeup removal/cleansing of the area and photography for documenting progress. A cold contact gel or thin film is applied for comfort, then light pulses are delivered along the path of visible vessels. Most patients describe the sensation as a “pinch” followed by brief heat, well tolerated. At the end, the area may show slight redness or discrete swelling, which usually resolves within a few hours. Depending on the number and caliber of vessels, 2–4 sessions are usually recommended, at 4–6 week intervals, to achieve a uniform and lasting result.

Treatment with the MeDioStar diode effectively targets telangiectasias and fine red vessels, both on the face and legs. For patients with couperose or rosacea, reducing diffuse redness makes the complexion look more uniform, and makeup becomes optional, not mandatory. The procedure is non-invasive, involves no incisions and leaves no scars. Thanks to active cooling and short pulses, discomfort is minimal, and resumption of daily activities is, in most cases, immediate.

Another important advantage is versatility: the same platform can treat sensitive areas of the face, but also regions with thicker skin on the body. Parameters are adjusted according to phototype, so that the treatment is adapted to people with light or darker skin. Results appear gradually over the weeks, as treated vessels are reabsorbed. In parallel, adopting a care routine with high photoprotection and avoiding triggers of redness (prolonged sun exposure, extreme temperatures, hot sauna immediately post-treatment) contributes to maintaining long-term results.

Nd:YAG 1064 nm (Classic Gold Standard)
The Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser penetrates deeper into the skin, making it a solid option for larger caliber veins with blue or greenish hue (approximately 3–5 mm), frequently encountered on the lower limbs. This depth comes with more pronounced discomfort during the session, compared to the diode, which is why additional comfort measures are sometimes applied. For certain leg veins, Nd:YAG remains the reference due to its efficiency on deeper vessels.

Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL, 585–595 nm)
PDL is considered the gold standard for superficial vascular lesions, such as flat hemangiomas, certain types of “port-wine stains” and diffuse redness. Due to very good absorption in hemoglobin at these wavelengths, PDL excels in surface treatments. Its limitation appears when the target is deeper or when the vessel diameter is larger, in which case efficiency decreases, and other wavelengths become more suitable.

MeDioStar Diode (940 nm)
The MeDioStar 940 nm diode laser is very effective for telangiectasias and fine red vessels, including on face and legs. The 360° cooling of the handpiece increases safety at the skin surface and enhances comfort throughout the pulses. For superficial vessels, the diode offers an excellent balance between efficiency and tolerance. In cases with larger or deeper veins, treatment can be combined with other technologies (for example, Nd:YAG), within a staged plan established by the specialist physician.

Conclusion
The MeDioStar diode is an excellent choice for superficial red vessels and telangiectasias, while Nd:YAG remains preferred for larger, blue-green veins located deeper. PDL has its well-defined role in very superficial lesions and diffuse redness. Initial evaluation determines which technology or combination of technologies offers you the best ratio between efficiency, comfort and number of sessions.