What are the treatment options for spider veins?

Spider veins, also called thread veins or telangiectasia, are small visible blood vessels close to the skin surface. They may form branching or web-like patterns, often on the legs or face. They are commonly a cosmetic concern, but a clinician should consider the pattern, symptoms, and whether deeper vein problems may be present before treatment.

Sclerotherapy places a solution into selected veins so the treated vessels close and gradually fade; it is commonly considered for leg veins. IPL photofacial uses broad-spectrum light and may suit selected superficial red or brown vessels, depending on skin characteristics. Pulsed dye laser treatment targets blood-vessel colour with focused light and may be considered for facial redness or certain small vessels. More than one session may be suggested, and treated areas can temporarily look darker, red, swollen, or bruised. Sun protection and the clinic’s aftercare instructions help reduce irritation and colour changes.

Seek medical assessment before cosmetic treatment if one leg is newly swollen, warm, painful, or red, or if veins are accompanied by skin ulcers or significant heaviness. After treatment, obtain prompt advice for severe pain, rapidly increasing swelling, marked colour change, blistering, or signs of infection. These symptoms need assessment rather than another cosmetic session.

Ask which vessels are being treated, whether the pattern suggests a vein problem requiring medical review, and why a particular light or injection method fits your skin. Ask about expected healing changes, sun protection, the possibility of further sessions, and what result is realistic for your vessels.