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Thorns are one of the leading causes requiring manipulation by a dermatologist. The established methods for their removal are cryotherapy, laser treatment and in extreme cases – surgical excision. However, before reaching the medical professionals, people usually go through various forms of self-medication, which unfortunately only worsen the condition and make the subsequent cure more difficult. Today we will look at the main methods of home treatment of hen thistles and why we should not apply them.

A patient’s path from discovering a coccyx to seeing a specialist usually goes through many different forms of self-treatment. It all starts with the appearance of the first lesion. The chicken pox is actually a type of viral wart from the group of human papilloma viruses. These are over 150 different types, causing diseases from warts on the body to precancerous conditions on the genitals. On the skin of the feet and hands, chicken pox usually starts as painful calluses – this is how they are most often described by patients. In the center of the formations are often seen black dots – these represent thrombosed blood vessels. It is they who are most often the object of the first form of self-treatment:

Mechanical removal, scraping and carving of the painful formation

Depending on their location, hen’s thorns range from highly indented skin growths on the heels to highly prominent hard skin growths on the lateral surface of the feet, hands and toes. The discomfort they cause, besides the aesthetic component, is the leading reason they are subject to constant manipulation. Most often after a bath, when the skin is softened, resort to the attempt to mechanically remove the thistle. Knives, scissors, needles, razors and barber blades, even in some cases surgical blades, are used for this purpose. Often, the formation is deepened to blood, leading to soreness on pressure, lasting several days. This is followed by a period of relief as much of the diseased tissue is removed. The pain of hen’s thorn stems from the layered skin, which is why its removal brings temporary relief. Unfortunately, after its accumulation, the complaints return. This inevitably leads to a new “cleansing”, which marks the beginning of a closed circle. Since chicken pox is a viral disease, any such cleaning leads to the spread of viral particles on the surrounding skin. Multiple new hen thorns appear, and in some cases if the primary is on the legs, secondary ones appear on the arms. This also leads to the second peculiarity in the self-treatment of hen thistles :

Does the removal of the “mother” lead to the removal of the “daughter entities”?

Here the mother is a correct term insofar as she can indeed be considered the source of other hen thorns on various parts of the body. We have already explained how this happens. However, the eventual cure of the mother does not lead to the disappearance of secondary formations. For this reason, all hen thistles should be treated simultaneously until all sources of self-infection are eliminated. Apart from the ‘mother’, another common target of hen thistle removal efforts is the so-called root:

Does removing the “root” of the hen’s thorn solve the problem?

The root actually represents the thrombosed blood vessels we have already talked about. The blackheads actually look a lot like tree roots or microscopic thorns stuck deep into the skin. This is probably where the name hen’s thistle comes from. The attempt to remove the root is usually again mechanical, thereby ending up with a carving down to the dermis, or as is often reported by patients – to the flesh. Besides not solving the problem, digging is a prerequisite for deeper penetration of the corns into the foot, which makes the problem even more painful. The shedding of viral particles and the appearance of multiple chicken pox are also common. And here the process is usually repeated until it is too painful and does not bring the characteristic temporary relief.

Everything listed so far were mechanical methods of self-healing. Chemical ones come next. We start with the most commonly used tool:

Do the patches from the pharmacy against calluses and chicken pox help?

Although sold in pharmacies, these remedies do not always lead to a cure. The fact is that we as medical professionals only reach people who have failed in their attempts to cure themselves, and we have no monitoring over the success rate. Where is the problem with these patches? Most often, they contain a high percentage of salicylic acid – usually in the form of a greenish gel-shaped circular field in the center of the patch. Salicylic acid, and acids in general, lead to tissue coagulation necrosis. In plain terms, this means that in dying, the tissue is compacted, creating an insurmountable barrier to further penetration into depth. This is also the reason for the failures in attempts to treat hen thistles. Peeling of the superficial skin is obtained without reaching the desired depth. Repeating the procedure results in extensive damage to healthy skin, in some cases the appearance of sores and significant pain when walking. In the very early stages of the development of chicken pox, without them being far into the skin, it is possible that treatment with patches will be successful, but often when patients notice the presence of a chicken pox, especially on the foot, this is the point at which it has made them ill, and this means that it is already too deep to be cured. In addition to the pharmacy form of acid patches, folk medicine offers not a few variants following the principle of salicylic acid, the most famous of which are

Does aspirin on tomatoes, salicylic acid in cream, oil in vinegar, sorrel leaves, fig milk cure?

For all of them, what was said about the patches from the pharmacy is applicable. In early stages and very superficial lesions, it is possible to achieve a cure. Even then, it involves repeated procedures, severe discomfort and often ulceration of healthy skin. Another problem with these methods is that if a cure is not reached, the problem gets worse. Injured skin is a prerequisite for the spread of the virus, and the dislocation of the thorn is the cause of its deeper penetration and worsening of the pain.

As we have already mentioned, we as medical professionals are approached by people who have failed in the self-treatment methods of henbane. Even if some of the above options work, or the dozens of others that exist but we have not listed, the harm they can have often outweighs the benefit. In medicine, for a treatment to be accepted, the benefit must outweigh the risk or harm. For this reason, as dermatologists, we advise that hen’s thorns be treated according to accepted medical standards, without attempts at self-treatment.

My name is Todor Stoev and I am part of the team of dermatologists at Esteline Clinic . In my practice, one of the most common diseases I treat are viral warts on the hands and feet, so-called chicken pox. I would be happy to help you feel more informed about the appropriate treatment for you and take steps to address this issue. Book an hour for a consultation on 02 405 8000.

What is a dermapen procedure?

Dermapen, also called microneedling, is a procedure in which the skin is treated in individual segments with tiny needles that penetrate to a preset depth to stimulate skin renewal. Depending on the condition being treated the depth varies. Through microneedling, various substances such as peptides and other large molecules that are impossible to penetrate otherwise are effectively introduced transdermally. The equipment with which the procedure is carried out can be different: a tip in the form of a pen, a derma-roller, a micro-needle seal, etc.

When is a dermapen procedure done?

Microneedling is extremely suitable for skin relief problems: scars, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles. In combination with other therapies, microneedling produces impressive results. The key to them is patience and perseverance in their execution. An important condition for success is the conduct of 5-6 treatments with microneedle therapy, because the stimulation of collagen production is visible after a month and a half or two. Microneedle therapy is a good alternative for patients with darker phototypes where lasers are riskier due to the likelihood of hyperpigmentation.

How does the procedure work?

At the Esteline Dermapen Clinic, the procedure lasts between 30-40min. We always carry out a detailed consultation and discuss the problem before the procedure begins. After which, we start the actual part of the procedure by thoroughly cleaning the face and necessarily treating with an antiseptic solution, which provides a clean environment for a safe procedure. We treat the face using the micro-needle tip, taking into account the client’s individual sensations and skin needs. We finish with a suitable finishing cream, minimizing discomfort.

What care can we take at home?

After the procedure, we always give specific guidance to each client. General care includes the use of a gentle skin cleanser, active hydration and mandatory sun protection, even in winter.

It is usually normal within 2-3 days after the procedure for the skin to be slightly erythematous with an increased feeling of dryness. During this period, it is important to avoid products with strong fragrances, soaps and lotions that can cause irritation.

It is important to avoid swimming activities and excessive sweating after the procedure.

What effect can we expect?

Already after the first treatment the effect we achieve is a very good exfoliation of the surface layer of the skin. After a few days it feels softer and smoother. The end result includes visible obliteration of acne scars, lightening of pigmentation, shrinking of enlarged pores, skin tightening, smoothing of fine lines.

What should we consider before undergoing a microneedling procedure?

Before the procedure, it is important to be familiar with the overall process and the time it will take.

– Noticing results takes time. This is because skin renewal and healing processes take time. It usually takes between 5-6 treatments to notice good results. The interval between each of them is 28-30days.

– Healing of the skin can take several days. During this period the skin will be drier than usual, red and with possible scaling and peeling.

– The procedure is not painful In cases where the procedure is performed at greater depth, a numbing product is applied beforehand.

In which cases are we not suitable for a dermapen procedure?

Microneedling is suitable for most patients, except when active skin infections, viral lesions such as herpes, allergic reaction to any of the products introduced into the skin, dermatitis, tendency to keloid formation, acute inflammation, active acne, warts, mycotic infections, etc. are present.

At Esteline Clinic you will find competent medical aestheticians and dermatologists who will answer all your questions and prepare your Individual Aesthetic Plan.

With us you can count on reliable results and natural. We combine proven and researched approaches with modern high-quality equipment and methods. I am Maria Peteleva and I will be happy to help you choose the best skin care for your skin. You can book an appointment on tel: 02 405 8000

Varicose veins are a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. They are a problem not only from an aesthetic point of view, but also from a health point of view. They cause discomfort and can lead to restriction of movement and social contact – avoiding walks and gatherings because of pain, swelling, heaviness in the legs or discomfort from their appearance.

In this article you will find out more about what varicose veins and capillaries are; what types there are; the causes of their formation; their treatment and the preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.

What are varicose veins

They are called varices, varicosities or varicose veins and represent chronic venous disease (CVD). The disease manifests itself in their elongation, curvature and expansion. This is because more blood is retained in the veins, leading to swelling and bulging. In color, varicose veins vary between bluish, red and dark purple shades depending on their type.

Types of varicose veins

There are several types of varicose veins: telangiectasias, venulectasias, reticular and varicose veins. They vary in size, color, and can spread over the entire body.

Teleangiectasias

Telangiectasias represent spider veins. Their size reaches up to 1 mm. They are red or violet-blue in colour. They most commonly appear in the area between the knee and ankle, but are also seen on other parts of the body, including the eyes, nose, mucous membranes and lips. Pregnant women are more prone to telangiectasias.

Venulectasia

This type of varicose veins are 1-2 mm in size and are blue in color.

Reticular veins

The reticular veins resemble a mesh on the surface of the skin, measuring between 2 and 4 mm. They are highly folded and appear in people who are not physically active.

Varicose veins

Their size is over 4 mm. They are characterised by being large and curved. They are painful and require medical treatment.

Stages of development of varicose veins

Chronic venous disease develops in several stages:

• C0 – at this stage there are no visible signs of varicose veins.
• C1 – the formation of the spider or reticular veins begins.
• C2 – large varicose veins are present.
• C3 – legs and ankles are draining.
• C4a – the skin is discolored as a result of varicose veins on the legs.
• C4b – venous eczema and skin changes appear.
• C5 – Wounds appear.
• C6 – there is the presence of unhealed active varicose ulcers.

Varicose veins: causes

The formation of varicose veins occurs due to inflammatory processes in the veins. The valves of the veins are damaged, there is the presence of valve insufficiency, blood retention and reflux (blood backflow). Thus, the pressure rises, which leads to the formation of varicose veins, because the venous valves stop performing their main function: to return the blood in the opposite direction.

Risk factors

Several factors influence the development of chronic venous disease. They are as follows:

• Genetics;
• Gender – women are more susceptible to varicose veins because of various physiological and hormonal factors;
• Overweight;
• Pregnancy;
• Menopause;
• Aging – with age, veins begin to lose their elasticity, leading to CHD;
• Sedentary lifestyle;
• Lack of regular physical activity and sedentary lifestyle;
• Long settling;
• Footwork;
• Smoking;
• Arterial hypertension;
• Wearing uncomfortable shoes and tight clothes.

Varicose veins: symptoms

There are visible and invisible symptoms that suggest the development of chronic venous disease.

Varicose is observed when changes in the appearance of the veins appear: protruding areas, lumps, “spider webs”, spreading in the affected area with a dark-pink, blue or red color. Skin changes are also a symptom to look out for. They can be dermatitis, venous ulcer on the inside of the ankle, pigmentation and others.

Invisible symptoms range from pain, burning, leg cramps, discomfort to heaviness, tingling, numbness, swelling and itching.

Dilated capillaries

Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the human body. They ensure the normal functioning of organs by allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach all tissues in the body.

The presence of dilated capillaries (telangiectasias) represent an aesthetic and health problem.

Dilated capillaries: causes

Some of the causes of the formation of dilated and broken capillaries are:

• Genetic predisposition;
• Excessive alcohol use;
• Pregnancy;
• Immobilization;
• Obesity;
• Menopause;
• Taking medication;
• Extreme external factors – exposure of the skin to excessively high or low temperatures;
• Hormonal imbalance;
• Aging;
• Vitamin deficiency;
• Disease.

Varicose capillaries: symptoms

Dilated capillaries cause discomfort and sometimes pain and itching. They most commonly affect the lower extremities of the body – calves, knee flexors, ankles and hips. They can also be seen on the face – especially on the nose and cheeks.

Symptoms by which you can recognize the disease are:

• Appearance of spider webs with purple or red color;
• Bruises on the body caused by even the lightest pressure;
• In rare cases, capillaries can cause bleeding.

Diagnosis of varicose veins

At the appearance of the first symptoms of varicose veins, it is best to visit a specialist. According to the stage of development and severity of the disease, laser procedures, Doppler or venogram examinations can be performed.

Varicose veins: treatment

Treatment of varicose veins is possible. Depending on the stage and severity of CFB, it can be done through home methods, medication, surgery or in a minimally invasive and non-invasive way such as laser therapy.

When varicose veins are suspected and first symptoms appear, a specialist should be consulted.

Clinical and surgical treatment

For milder conditions, treatment can occur by:

• Laser surgeries – these are most commonly used in minor cases and for aesthetic purposes.
• Taking medication – creams, medications and supplements are prescribed to relieve symptoms, but they often do not lead to a complete cure of the problem.
• Compression therapy – wearing compression socks and elastic bandages also helps in the treatment of a bunion.

In severe cases of varicose veins, surgical treatment may also be necessary – most often stripping or phlebectomy. Stripping is performed in the presence of varicose veins or complaints such as heaviness, cramping and swelling. Phlebectomy is necessary in the presence of large varicose veins and small branches. It is performed in an operative manner. Both types of surgery require a recovery period of several weeks.

Home methods

In order to relieve symptomatology and avoid the onset of vicosis, you can take several useful steps:

• Moderate physical activity – regular exercise leads to better blood circulation. Moderate exercise is recommended as heavy strength exercises will have the opposite effect. Dancing, swimming and yoga are all good sports to practice;
• Compression stockings;
• Change in diet – adding foods high in potassium, flavonoids and fiber will have a beneficial effect on your physical condition. Among the foods that are recommended to add to your menu are nuts, fish, spinach, broccoli, lentils, potatoes and others;
• Intake of plenty of water;
• Taking reliever medication;
• Limit hot showers, saunas and steam baths – heat helps to dilate veins, so cooler showers are preferable;
• Massages;
• Wear loose clothing and low shoes – this will avoid venous drainage;
• Smoking cessation.

Keep in mind that home treatments and medications relieve symptoms but do not cure the condition.

Varicose capillaries: treatment

Taking medication can help relieve the condition if there is inflammation. Depending on the severity of the disease, surgical intervention may be indicated.

Aestheline Dermatology Clinic offers laser therapy of capillaries and small veins which is suitable for milder cases of dilated capillaries. The procedure is safe and obliterates reticular capillaries and veins up to 4-5 mm in diameter. It is performed with a special ND:Yag laser by a certified dermatologist, ensuring its success. The results are visible after the first session.

Home methods

You can relieve or prevent the appearance of dilated or broken capillaries by:

• You exercise and walk regularly;
• Add more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C (citrus, spinach, red peppers, etc.) to your menu;
• You take vitamins;
• Be careful with nitrate intake, which increases the tendency of the vessels to dilate;
• Do not wear tight clothes;
• Choose appropriate creams and medicines after consulting a specialist;
• Hydrate your skin;
• Limit sauna and steam room visits.

In this article you learned more about what varicose veins and capillaries are, what are the symptoms, causes and risk factors for their occurrence and what methods can treat them.

If you recognize any of the symptoms, see a specialist and take preventive measures to avoid the onset of the disease or alleviate its symptoms.

You can read more informative articles on our blog.

In 1952, French physician Dr. Michel Pistor first applied mesotherapy in his work to treat pain in trauma and rheumatological diseases. Recognized by the French Academy of Medicine six years later, over time it began to be used for a variety of conditions and aesthetic purposes.

It is now a widespread method of slowing the aging process, which rejuvenates and tones the skin.

What is mesotherapy?

The name of the procedure comes from the Greek “meso” (middle) and “terapea” (treatment) and is a non-invasive technique that uses precise pricks to introduce beneficial biologically active ingredients into the dermis.

For this purpose, multiple single superficial punctures of the skin are made with a thin needle using a mesopistol. They act as “channels” through which the applied mesococktails penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis. It is performed by microinjections into the dermis, infusing vitamins, minerals, hyaluronic acid and other beneficial substances that hydrate, nourish and restore the skin. This stimulates the formation of elastin and collagen.

Mesotherapy is a method that can be applied to the skin of the face, neck and décolletage, hands, and scalp for hair loss. It is a painless technique that can be combined with other aesthetic procedures such as lasers, chemical peels, photorejuvenation and others.

If you want to undergo this type of therapy, it is advisable to consult a specialist in the field beforehand.

What mesococktails are used?

Mesotherapy for the face uses a variety of serums called mesococktails. The active ingredients in them are specially formulated to nourish, hydrate, firm and renew the skin. They vary according to the specific needs of the skin and the goals of the procedure. Some of the most common ingredients are:

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is an essential component in many mesococktails. It has exceptional hydrating properties – it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Helps retain moisture in the skin, making it smoother, more supple and radiant. Hyaluronic acid is a useful ingredient that not only hydrates, but also smooths fine lines and wrinkles, strengthens the skin and improves its overall appearance. Vitamins: Various vitamins such as vitamins C, E, A and B vitamins are added to facial mesococktails to aid cellular repair, stimulate collagen production, even the complexion and fight free radicals.

Amino acids

They are the basic building blocks of proteins. Some of these are glycine, proline and lysine. They are important for the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which ensure the elasticity and firmness of the skin. They keep it hydrated, support the effectiveness of other active ingredients and stimulate cell renewal.

Peptides

They are composed of amino acids and represent fragments of proteins. This makes them indispensable in maintaining skin health and vitality. They stimulate collagen and elastin production, visibly reduce fine lines and improve skin texture. Some peptides block the action of enzymes that cause aging.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants such as coenzyme Q10, vitamin C and green tea extract help protect the skin from free radicals, which have an anti-aging effect. They provide an oxygen atom to the radicals, thus inactivating them.

Plant extracts

Plant extracts such as aloe vera, rose, chamomile, ginkgo biloba, rosemary and others are added to soothe, nourish and repair the skin.

Minerals

Minerals such as zinc, magnesium and selenium are important for skin health and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

What does mesotherapy treat for the face?

The procedure aims to rejuvenate and restore skin health, but it also:

• Lightens pigment spots;
• Removes acne scars;
• Tightens and hydrates the skin;
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles;
• Corrects poor circulation in the skin;
• Evens the complexion;
• Eliminates blackheads;
• Hydrates the skin to make it more vital and radiant;
• Accelerates the formation of elastin and collagen;
• Helps skin recover from sun exposure and smoking.

What are the benefits of mesotherapy?

The main advantage of mesotherapy is that it is painless and gives long-lasting results. Other benefits of the procedure include:

• It can be done all year round – the big plus of mesotherapy is that you don’t need to adjust to the season to do it.
• The technique is painless and safe – the duration of the procedure is less than an hour and does not cause pain to the patient.
• There is no recovery period or clinical stay.
• Stabs do not leave scars.
• Hydrates the skin and increases its elasticity.
• Stimulates the skin’s natural processes.

When is it appropriate to perform the procedure?

Mesotherapy for the face is applied if your skin needs rejuvenation or in the presence of pigment spots and acne scars. It is extremely useful for tired skin exposed to the sun for a long time and for erasing marks left by smoking. The technique is suitable for anyone over the age of 20.

Results of application of the procedure

The effect is visible after the first treatment. For longer lasting results, it is recommended to do six – one per week. To further keep the skin rejuvenated, firm and vibrant, it is desirable to perform mesotherapy once a month.

Side effects

Mesotherapy rarely causes side effects. This happens if there is an allergic reaction to some of the products or in case of hypersensitivity. Other possible side effects are the appearance of hematomas, bruising, itching, burning and redness. They pass in a few days.

The slight marks from the pricks in the skin disappear in hours and leave no scars.

When is mesotherapy not performed?

Despite the many benefits of mesotherapy for the face, there are cases when it is not recommended to apply the procedure.

It is not suitable for:

• Proven allergies to any of the active ingredients;
• Lactating or pregnant women;
• Presence of inflammation in the area to be treated;
• Heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy and others;
• Malignant skin disease;
• Experienced anaphylactic shock;
• Patients with skin infections.

Recommended care before and after facial mesotherapy

Preparation by the patient is necessary before the procedure. It is advisable to discontinue the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs and those that thin the blood, two weeks before mesotherapy. This means stopping medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and others. It is desirable to take the dietary supplement arnica the day before the procedure. This reduces the likelihood of bruising as a result of the prick.

• Do not wash your face for at least 12 hours to allow the product to work as long as possible.
• Do not apply makeup for 24-48 hours after the procedure.
• Do not exercise for at least 24 hours after mesotherapy, as heavy sweating can cause inflammation in the treated area.
• Do not visit swimming pools and saunas for 48 hours after mesotherapy to prevent inflammation or infection.

What is needle-free mesotherapy?

Needle-free mesotherapy is a painless, non-invasive technique in which beneficial substances such as vitamins, minerals and hyaluronic acid are introduced into the skin using electromagnetic pulses.

The treatment has a hydrating, rejuvenating and smoothing effect. It also helps to preserve the beneficial ingredients in the skin and is suitable for treating areas off-limits to injectable treatments, such as the upper and lower eyelids.

With needleless mesotherapy there are no traces of redness and bruising. It can be performed year-round, requires no clinical stay, and the patient does not need a recovery period.

It is not suitable for epileptics, pregnant or breastfeeding women and for patients with pacemaker, skin inflammation or migraine.

Procedures from Aestheline Dermatology and Laser Clinic

Aestheline Dermatology Clinic offers services for traditional (injectable) mesotherapy and needleless mesotherapy.

• Mesocare needle-free mesotherapy is a great method to smooth, tighten and rejuvenate your skin. This is achieved through the use of high quality electro-cutting and meso-myo-lifting equipment, which introduces powerful regenerating mesococktails into the skin. As a result of their application, the formation of elastin and collagen is enhanced, which helps to tighten the skin. The recommended course of therapy is 10 treatments, their effect is manifested in the first 3-5 visits.
• Apparatus mesotherapy is a method that uses a mesopistol, with the help of which the corresponding useful ingredients are injected. The purpose of the procedure is to create small bumps (papules) in the dermis where substances are briefly retained before being absorbed by the skin. It is desirable to perform 3 treatments – once a week, and then 2 every 2 weeks.

With what procedures can mesotherapy be combined?

Mesotherapy can be combined with other treatments to achieve even more visible results. Some possible combinations include:

• Radiofrequency facelift Exilis + mesotherapy – heating helps for better penetration of the mesococktail;
• Water microdermabrasion + mesotherapy – exfoliation of the epidermis leads to better penetration of the meso-product.
• Laser procedure;
• Chemical peeling – exfoliation of the epidermis helps for better penetration of the meso-product;

Mesotherapy is a popular aesthetic procedure that aims to rejuvenate, hydrate and soften the skin. It restores the skin’s natural radiance and hydration, reduces the appearance of fine lines and pigment spots, brightens faded skin and evens the complexion.

Before undergoing the procedure, consult a specialist. Note that each patient develops an individual program of number of treatments and composition of mesococktails depending on their skin type and specific needs.

You can read more informative articles on our blog.