Get Rid of Spider Veins Before Summer

Spider veins, also known as thread veins or—to give them their clinical title, telangiectasia varicose veins—are usually harmless, yet can be unsightly. They normally appear in small clusters on various body areas, such as the face or legs. 

When it comes to the latter, which is the most common site, they tend not to bother us during the cooler months. This is because they’re often covered with long trousers, tights, and/or skirts. But when the mercury rises and the summer wardrobe is unpacked, they can be a source of embarrassment for many.

If this sounds familiar, then it’s time to take action. Now—before summer is upon us once again. Read on to discover the simple treatments that can reduce, fade, and get rid of spider veins completely.

What are Spider Veins? 

• Spider veins 101
• How do spider veins differ from varicose veins?

Spider veins 101

Spider veins are a type of varicose veins but don’t have the typical presentation, such as swollen, enlarged, and often being very painful. Instead, they present as web-like red, purple, or dark lines of blood vessels. They typically appear on the legs, feet, and face.

They occur because the tiny valves within the veins have become weakened, allowing blood to flow back and collect in that area. It’s this blood that we see when spider veins become apparent.

They are generally painless, even though they may be unsightly.

How do spider veins differ from varicose veins?

Although spider veins are a type of varicose vein, they’re much smaller and don’t bulge underneath the surface of the skin. They’re much shorter and narrower, don’t usually cause pain, and can appear at any time of life.

However, in some instances, they can ache or cause a burning pain (much as regular, larger varicose veins). This typically occurs after long periods of standing up.

How Spider Veins are Treated

• Invasive vs. non-invasive spider vein treatment
• Laser vein treatment: the perfect solution for summer-beautiful skin

Invasive vs. non-invasive spider vein treatment

There are two ways to get rid of spider veins: 

• Sclerotherapy (invasive)
• Endovenous laser ablation (non-invasive)

The former involves a solution being injected into the vein that causes a scar and closes off the vein. This means the blood has to find a different route through healthy veins. It’s generally quite effective when carried out by an experienced practitioner, although the treatment might need to be repeated if the first dose doesn’t work.

There are side effects, such as itching, swelling, and skin color changes (all usually transient). The procedure can be carried out in the dermatologist’s office.

The second type, endovenous laser ablation, is completely non-invasive. It consists of pulses of intense light being directed into the spider veins. The light is absorbed, causing the veins to shrink and fade. A course of treatment usually results in the veins disappearing completely.

Because no surrounding tissues are damaged, there’s little or no swelling or bruising. This means you can return to normal activities virtually immediately (although, for the best results, you’ll be advised to refrain from strenuous activity post-treatment), A procedure typically takes around 20 minutes.

Laser vein treatment: the perfect solution for summer-beautiful skin 

Undergoing laser vein treatment is one of the easiest ways to get rid of this common condition. Because it takes little time and requires no downtime, many people prefer this over the more invasive Sclerotherapy option with its associated recovery period. 

Want to Get Rid of Spider Veins for Summer? Contact Bayou City Dermatology Today 

At Bayou City Dermatology, we’re committed to ensuring our clients benefit from the most gorgeous skin they can. Our expert clinicians use cutting-edge laser technology to shrink and fade spider veins, allowing the body beautiful to shine through. 

No scarring, no extensive recovery time. Just summer-ready skin that means you can bare as much as you dare. 

Visit https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/cosmetic/leg-vein-treatment to find out more and get in touch today to book your confidential consultation.