for Spider Veins

At Golden State Dermatology, we understand that the appearance of spider veins can be a concern for many people. These small, thread-like veins that appear close to the skin’s surface can affect your confidence and may even cause discomfort.

Our team of experienced physicians and aestheticians is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

What Are Spider Veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small, thin veins that appear near the surface of the skin. They get their name from their appearance, which often resembles a spider’s web or branches of a tree. 

These veins are typically red, blue, or purple in color and can be found on various parts of the body, most commonly on the legs and face. Unlike varicose veins, which are larger and often bulge above the skin’s surface, spider veins are typically flat and do not cause significant pain or discomfort. 

However, some people may experience a burning or itching sensation in the affected areas. While spider veins are generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for many people.

What Causes Spider Veins?

Several factors can contribute to the development of spider veins. One of the primary causes is genetics.

If you have a family history of spider veins, you may be more likely to develop them. Age is another significant factor, as the risk of developing spider veins increases as you get older. 

This is because the valves in your veins that help regulate blood flow can weaken over time, allowing blood to pool and cause the veins to become more visible. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can also increase the risk of developing spider veins. 

During pregnancy, the increased blood volume and hormonal fluctuations can put extra pressure on the veins, causing them to become more prominent. Similarly, the hormonal changes associated with menopause can weaken the vein walls, making them more susceptible to damage.

Certain lifestyle factors can also contribute to the development of spider veins. Prolonged sitting or standing, especially in one position, can put added pressure on the veins in your legs, increasing the risk of spider veins.

How Can You Prevent Spider Veins?

While some factors that contribute to the development of spider veins, such as genetics and age, cannot be changed, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. One of the most important things you can do is to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. 

This can help reduce the pressure on your veins and improve overall circulation. Regular physical activity mainly exercises that target the legs, such as walking or cycling, can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of spider veins. 

If you have a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing, taking frequent breaks to move around and stretch your legs can also be beneficial. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing can also help prevent spider veins by reducing the pressure on your veins. 

If you are concerned about the appearance of spider veins, consult with a qualified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology to discuss your treatment options. With the right approach, you can maintain healthy, beautiful skin and feel confident in your appearance.

How Are Spider Veins Treated?

At Golden State Dermatology, we offer a range of safe and effective treatments for spider veins tailored to meet your individual needs and goals. Our experienced physicians and aestheticians will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment option based on the location, size, and severity of your spider veins.

DioLite 532 Laser

The DioLite 532 Laser is a state-of-the-art, non-invasive treatment for spider veins. This advanced laser technology uses a high-energy, green light to target and eliminate the damaged veins without harming the surrounding skin.

This laser works by targeting the affected areas with a focused beam of light. Most of the time, this treatment can be done without any numbing medication, although a numbing cream can be used if needed. 

Your doctor will use a small, handheld device to carefully guide the laser light to the areas that need treatment. During the procedure, you may feel a slight stinging sensation, but this is generally well-tolerated by most people.

After the treatment, you may experience some temporary redness, swelling, or bruising in the treated area, but these side effects typically resolve within a few days. You can expect to notice improvements in the appearance of spider veins within two weeks after the treatment. 

The DioLite 532 laser is a safe and effective way to achieve clearer, more even-looking skin.

Available at the following clinics:

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is another highly effective, non-surgical treatment for spider veins. The treatment involves a series of injections into the affected veins, which uses a special solution called Polidocanol. This solution is FDA-approved and works by causing the veins to collapse and disappear over time. Most people need around four treatment sessions, each spaced about a month apart, to see the best results.

During the treatment, you may feel a slight pinch or stinging sensation as the solution is injected, but most patients find the procedure very tolerable. After each session, you may experience some temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or discoloration in the treated areas, but these side effects usually go away within a few days to a week.

You can go back to your normal activities right after the treatment, but your doctor may recommend wearing compression socks for two weeks after each session to help with the healing process. You should start to see improvements in the appearance of your spider veins within the first two months of treatment, with some changes visible as early as two weeks after your first session.

Our skilled providers use the most up-to-date injection techniques to ensure your comfort during the treatment. With our expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, we strive to provide the best possible experience and results for our patients seeking to eliminate their spider veins.

Do you want to learn more about spider vein treatment? Schedule an appointment at Golden State Dermatology at one our convenient locations today!