What Are Thread Veins and How to Get Rid of Them?

Thread veins, also called spider veins or broken capillaries, are small, red blood vessels that appear close to the skin’s surface. They can look like tree branches or spider webs and are found on different body areas, including the face, chest, arms, and legs. They are smaller than varicose veins and don’t make this skin bulge.

While they may not have any serious health implications, they can appear unsightly and cause embarrassment for some people. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce their appearance or eliminate them altogether.

What Causes Thread Veins?

This condition can be caused by a few factors, including:

Genetics
Aging
Hormones
Trauma to the skin
Exposure to extreme temperatures

Other contributing lifestyle factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and excessive sun exposure.

How to Get Rid of Thread Veins

The best course of action for treating thread veins depends on the individual and the severity of their condition. Here are some of these that your doctor can recommend:

Laser treatment. This method uses a concentrated beam of light to target and destroy thread veins. Larger spider veins will darken and may need 1 to 3 months before disappearing. For complete removal, you may need three or more sessions. When considering this procedure, choose the best laser clinic in Brighton and the surrounding areas if you’re nearby.
Sclerotherapy. During this procedure, your doctor will inject a special solution into the affected areas to close off the blood vessels and help them fade away. After the injections, your doctor will recommend wearing compression stockings to reduce swelling and help the veins disappear faster. This procedure can take 3 to 6 weeks and 2 to 3 treatments to vanish.
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). This new procedure involves making a small incision in the skin and then inserting a special laser fiber into the damaged veins. The laser will then be used to heat up and seal the abnormal veins, causing them to shrink or disappear. Compared to other dermatology treatments like skinpen microneedling (get information here) that is doable without anesthesia, EVLT requires local anesthesia to minimize pain and discomfort.
Compression stockings or socks. Applying pressure to the area helps reduce swelling and improve circulation, which may reduce their appearance.
At-home treatments. For mild cases of thread veins, your doctor may recommend tips to improve circulation, such as exercise, elevating your legs, and avoiding soaking in hot baths for long periods.

How to Prevent Spider Veins?

Consider the following measures to avoid getting thread veins:

Maintain a healthy weight.
Practice good skin care, including wearing sunscreen and moisturizing regularly.
Avoid extreme temperatures, such as hot tubs or saunas.
Wear compression stockings to prevent excessive pressure on the veins.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Eat healthily and exercise regularly to improve circulation in your legs.
Take breaks throughout the day to move around and prevent blood from accumulating in your legs.
If you believe you are at risk of developing spider veins, talk with your doctor about ways to reduce that chance. They can suggest treatments or lifestyle changes that can help minimize their appearance and make sure they don’t become a problem for you.

What’s the Best Treatment for Spider Veins?

The most excellent thread vein treatment by professionals depends on your case, the size and location of the veins, and any underlying conditions contributing to their development. Your doctor will examine your history to determine the best course of action for eliminating your thread veins. Sometimes, they may recommend a combination of treatments, including laser therapy, sclerotherapy, EVLT, or compression stockings.