Spider veins are like varicose veins only smaller. Red, blue or purple in color, these small veins run close to the surface of the skin and are highly visible. They are most common in those who spend a lot of time on their feet and in women who take hormonal birth control. Obesity may contribute to spider veins and, though anyone can get them, they are more likely in women than in men. There are three ways to treat spider veins, and what works for one person may not work as well for another.
Sunless Tanner Spider Vein Treatment
Tanning lotions and sprays can mask the appearance of spider veins on your legs without any medical intervention. Simply apply the self-tanner to your legs before you go to bed and wake up with less visible spider veins. If your skin is very pale, be prepared to go two shades darker with your tanner before you see results. This may be enough for those with very few veins but is not a permanent solution as it masks the problem rather than eliminating the veins.
Sclerotherapy Options in Orange County, CA
Sclerotherapy is a popular and, for many, effective spider vein treatment. Typically done over three to five sessions, sclerotherapy is a process in which a technician at OC Skin Institute injects the unwanted veins with a sterile solution using a very small needle. The solution creates irritation along the wall of the vein, ultimately causing it to collapse in on itself.
This procedure is safe and painless save for a few needle pinches. Historically done with a saline solution, this procedure used to sting and cause a bit of discomfort. Today a different solution is used, however, and the procedure is pain free for most patients.
Laser Treatment
Often thought of as the gold standard for spider vein treatment, OC Skin Institute is happy to provide patients with laser treatment. During laser treatment, a beam of light is targeted at the vein. The wavelength of light used in treatment reacts with the color of the blood, allowing the blood to absorb it. The vein will become hot enough as a result that it will be destroyed and then reabsorbed into the body over a period of four to six weeks. The tissue around the vein remains untouched due to the precise targeting and wavelength used.
Safe and effective ways to treat spider veins in your legs
Whatever treatment option you prefer, OC Skin Institute is able to provide it for you safely and effectively. When you’re ready for a more permanent solution than sunless tanner can provide, call us to discuss your treatment options and find lasting relief from spider veins.