Spider veins are small, superficial blood vessels that appear red or blue in the skin. Although they may occur anywhere on the body, spider veins are most commonly found on the face and legs. They are not a health hazard and rarely cause symptoms.
The exact cause of spider veins is unknown although heredity, pregnancy, hormonal influences and prolonged standing are believed to be primary factors. Spider veins on the nose and cheeks of fair-skinned people may also be related to sun exposure. Spider veins can be reduced significantly through simple office procedures like sclerotherapy or with laser treatments.
Veins on the face can be safely and effectively treated with either lasers or electrocautery. These procedures are only mildly uncomfortable and take just seconds. Small scabs form which fall off within a few days.
Since the 1920’s sclerotherapy has been considered the gold standard treatment for spider veins on the legs. After several treatments you can expect about 80 to 90% of the treated vessels to be gone for good.
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