Broken capillaries on the face are enlarged blood vessels that occur just beneath the surface of the skin. The resulting red, web-shaped appearance gives them their common name: facial veins.

What Causes Facial Veins & Broken Capillaries

Facial veins and broken capillaries can occur for a number of reasons. Certain factors do tend to increase the chance of broken capillaries developing, specifically on your face. These risk factors include: 

• Pregnancy
• Exposure to the sun
• Alcohol abuse
• Aging
• Other skin issues, such as rosacea, scleroderma, and dermatomyositis