If you’ve started noticing small red or purple clusters on your legs, you’re not alone. Spider veins are one of the most common cosmetic concerns we see, and for many people, the question is less about whether to treat them and more about where to start.
Before we discuss treatment, it’s often helpful to understand what you’re actually looking at, because spider veins and varicose veins are often confused, and they are not the same thing.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. They are typically red, blue, or purple and form web-like or branching patterns, most commonly on the legs and occasionally on the face.
They develop when the walls of small vessels weaken and blood pools rather than flowing efficiently. Several factors can contribute to their formation:
- Genetics: A family history of spider veins is one of the strongest predictors. If a parent had them, your risk is meaningfully higher.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormonal fluctuations around menopause can all increase susceptibility.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Occupations or habits that involve long periods without movement affect circulation in the lower legs.
- Sun exposure: On the face particularly, UV damage to the skin can contribute to visible vessel changes.
Spider veins are generally harmless and do not pose a medical risk, but they are a common source of self-consciousness, particularly in the warmer months when more skin is on display.
Spider Veins vs Varicose Veins: What Is the Difference?
This distinction matters when it comes to treatment, so it is worth being clear.
Spider veins are small, flat, and purely cosmetic. They sit close to the skin surface and do not typically cause physical symptoms.
Varicose veins are larger, raised, and rope-like. They result from weakened valves inside the vein that allow blood to pool under pressure. Unlike spider veins, varicose veins can cause symptoms: aching, heaviness, swelling, or cramping in the legs. They may also indicate an underlying venous condition that warrants assessment by a physician.
At Healthy Skin Centre, we treat spider veins with sclerotherapy. Varicose veins with significant symptoms require a referral from your General Practitioner to see Dr. Lili Nasseri for appropriate assessment.
Spider Vein Treatment With Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the gold standard for spider vein treatment on the legs. A sclerosing solution is injected directly into the affected vessel using a very fine needle. The solution irritates the vessel wall, causing it to collapse and gradually fade over the following weeks.
At Healthy Skin Centre, sclerotherapy is administered by our dedicated sclerotherapy RNs and Dr. Lili Nasseri. Sessions typically take 30 to 45 minutes. Mild bruising or temporary redness at the injection sites is normal, and patients wear compression stockings for a short period afterward to support the healing process. Multiple sessions may be needed depending on the number and distribution of vessels being treated.
Is Sclerotherapy Right for You?
Sclerotherapy is most appropriate for adults with visible spider veins on the legs who are bothered by their appearance and are in generally good health, however, it is not recommended during pregnancy. A consultation with one of our dedicated RNs will confirm candidacy, assess the vessels, and determine the right treatment approach for your presentation.
Most patients need 3 to 6 sessions to achieve their desired outcome, though this varies depending on the extent of the veins being treated. Results are gradual: vessels continue to fade for several weeks after each session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can spider veins come back after treatment?
Treated vessels do not return. However, new spider veins can develop over time, particularly if contributing factors like genetics or prolonged standing are ongoing. Maintenance treatments help manage this.
How many sclerotherapy sessions will I need?
Most patients complete 3 to 6 sessions. The exact number depends on the size, number, and location of vessels being treated. Your physician will give you a realistic expectation at your consultation.
Is there any downtime after sclerotherapy?
There is minimal downtime. Patients can return to normal activities the same day and compression stockings are worn for a short period to support recovery.
Book a Spider Vein Consultation at Healthy Skin Centre
Spider veins are common, treatable, and nothing to put off. At Healthy Skin Centre in New Westminster, our physicians assess each patient individually to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for the veins you are looking to address.
Book a consultation at our New Westminster clinic to get started.