Spider Veins
Thread veins on the face or legs: what treatment involves
Small red, blue or purple veins on the cheeks, chin or legs are usually harmless, but they rarely fade by themselves. Here is how Skin House assesses them and which treatment suits which area.
Why spider veins appear
Spider veins, also called thread veins or telangiectasia, are small dilated blood vessels close to the skin's surface. They form when vein valves weaken or vessels twist and enlarge. Genetics, pregnancy and hormonal changes, ageing, long periods of standing and sun exposure all play a part. On the face they often show on the cheeks and chin, especially in sensitive or rosacea-prone skin; on the body they gather on the thighs, calves and chest.
Choosing the right approach
- Individual visible veins: thread vein removal uses laser light to heat the vessel and shut off its blood supply, and the body then absorbs the treated vein. Small, medium and large areas are treated, with sessions spaced a few weeks apart.
- Facial redness with fine veins: Lumecca IPL targets red pigment as well as brown, so it can treat vascular lesions, rosacea and sun damage across a wider area. It is suitable for skin types I to IV.
- Calming reactive skin: Dermalux LED uses red, blue and near-infrared light to calm redness and sensitivity, either on its own or as an add-on to other treatments.
The clinic's GentleMax Pro Plus laser platform, which Skin House uses for hair reduction, is also designed to address vascular lesions, rosacea and spider veins as well as pigmented lesions.
Sclerotherapy, where a solution is injected to close off the vein, or a combination approach may be recommended in some cases. Your practitioner will assess the severity of your veins at consultation before advising.
How many sessions
The usual range is one to three sessions depending on severity and area, although some clients need up to six. Results are long-lasting for the veins that are treated, but new ones can develop over time because of genetics or lifestyle, so occasional top-up sessions are common.
During and after treatment
Most people feel only a slight stinging or warming sensation. After IPL on vascular areas there is a possibility of purplish bruising, and most patients recover fully within seven days. Avoid direct sun and tanning for two weeks after light-based treatment, and follow the aftercare instructions your practitioner gives you. Because sun exposure is one of the contributing factors, daily SPF on treated facial areas is a sensible habit once your course is complete.
When to mention other symptoms
Spider veins are usually a cosmetic issue, but they can sometimes indicate underlying venous insufficiency. If your legs feel heavy or uncomfortable, mention it at your free consultation so it can be taken into account before any treatment is planned.
Spider veins are small, thin blood vessels visible beneath the surface of the skin, often appearing on the legs or face. They can look like red, blue, or purple webs and may cause cosmetic concerns, mild discomfort, or heaviness in the legs.
Our spider vein treatments target and collapse the visible veins safely and effectively. Using clinically approved methods such as laser therapy or sclerotherapy, we can reduce or completely remove spider veins. Treatments are tailored to your needs to ensure both safe results and improved skin appearance.
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Key information
Time of procedure
30 to 60 minutes
Discomfort Level
Very mild
Downtime
None
Sessions Required
2 to 4 sessions, depending on severity
Key benefits
Spider veins are small red, blue or purple vessels visible on the face or legs. Laser treatment targets and collapses them for clearer-looking skin.
Reduces or eliminates visible spider veins
Improves skin clarity and appearance
Minimally invasive with no surgery required
Quick treatment and minimal downtime
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Spider veins develop due to weakened or damaged valves in the veins. Contributing factors include genetics, pregnancy, hormonal changes, prolonged standing, or age.
Spider veins are usually harmless and considered a cosmetic issue. However, they may sometimes indicate underlying venous insufficiency.
We use advanced treatments such as laser therapy, which directs light energy to collapse the vein, or sclerotherapy, where a solution is injected to close off the vein.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, often described as a slight stinging or warming sensation during treatment.
Come and meet us in person
Book a free consultation at our clinic in Stopsley. We look at your skin, talk through what you would like to change and recommend the right treatment, with no obligation to book.
Opening hours
- Monday – Wednesday
- 10am – 6pm
- Thursday – Friday
- 10am – 7pm
- Saturday
- 10am – 6pm
- Sunday
- Closed
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