Feeling self-conscious about your spider veins? Then sclerotherapy treatment may be the answer for you. It’s a quick, non-surgical treatment to reduce the appearance of spider veins and some varicose veins. If it’s your first time, here’s what to expect before and after your treatment. 

needle being injected into spider veins in leg for sclerotherapy treatment

How to Prepare Before Your Sclerotherapy Treatment

1. Adjust Your Medications

It’s important to let your doctor know about any medical conditions, allergies, and medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. They might tell you to adjust your medications in the days prior to treatment. 

For instance, you’ll probably need to take a break from using Vitamin E supplements or certain pain relievers like Advil or aspirin. These can thin your blood, and pausing them helps minimize any risk of excessive bleeding. If you’re on medication specifically for blood thinning, your doctor might also suggest you stop these a few days prior to the treatment to avoid potential adverse reactions.

2. Dress Comfortably

preparing-for-sclerotherapy

On the day of your procedure, it’s all about ensuring comfort and optimizing conditions for the treatment. Start by choosing vein-friendly clothes that you feel relaxed in—nothing too snug. In fact, you might want to opt for shorts since they could be necessary during the procedure. 

3. Prep Your Skin

Equally important is how you prep your skin. It’s best to skip the lotions, creams, or any skincare products on your legs or near the treatment area for that day. Avoid tanning or getting a sunburn before your session as both can throw a wrench in the treatment process. 

4. Hydrate

Drink plenty of water before your appointment to ensure you’re well-hydrated. It’s also best to steer clear of any alcoholic drinks and nicotine for at least 24 hours before treatment.

5. Eat a Light Meal

You don’t want to undergo sclerotherapy on an empty stomach. But at the same time, a heavy meal could leave you feeling pretty uncomfortable. So find a happy middle ground.

Best Practices for a Successful Recovery After Sclerotherapy

1. Avoid Strenuous Exercise

After sclerotherapy, maintaining light exercise is key to preventing blood clots. Doctors often recommend multiple brief strolls throughout the day. You’ll want to avoid strenuous activities, like lifting heavy objects or engaging in high-impact exercises. Your healthcare provider will inform you how long you should adhere to this exercise regimen—often around 10 days or more.

2. Wear Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are a key post-sclerotherapy accessory. Expect to wear these tight-fitting socks for about 2-3 weeks post-treatment. They’re designed to exert the perfect amount of pressure on your treated veins, making a real difference in your healing process. Plus they ramp up your treatment’s effectiveness, pushing you closer to the results you’re after.

3. Stay Cool

Steer clear of hot baths, sunbathing, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 2-3 days post-treatment. The heat causes your blood vessels to dilate, which you’re looking to avoid after sclerotherapy. If you need to freshen up, showers are fine, but keep the water cooler than usual. You should also resist the urge to scratch or irritate your injection spots, as this could lead to scarring.

4. Take Doctor-Approved Pain Medications

When managing your comfort post-sclerotherapy, stick to any medication guidelines your doctor has given you. If you’re feeling some discomfort, it’s generally okay to use over-the-counter pain relievers—but only if your doctor gives the thumbs up. 

5. Focus on Nutrition 

Remember to drink enough water and focus on a diet that promotes good circulation and supports healing. Indulge in high-fiber foods, lean proteins, and snacks bursting with vitamins, while keeping it low on sodium and high on healthy fats.

6. Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment

Follow-up appointments are key. Your vein specialist will use ultrasound imaging to check how well the treatment worked and examine the condition of your deeper veins. You’ll receive direct, professional guidance on your progress and what you can anticipate moving forward. 

How to Know If You Need More Treatments

Sclerotherapy is certainly effective, but it doesn’t guarantee that veins won’t make a comeback. Typically, it takes around 2-3 sessions for your veins to fully vanish. But don’t be surprised if you need up to five sessions. 

Evaluate the results of your initial treatment after the recovery period. Keep an eye out for any veins that continue to stand out or haven’t improved. Use before-and-after photos for a side-by-side comparison to really gauge the changes from your treatment. Sometimes the differences are subtle, so direct comparison can be revealing in understanding the full impact of your sclerotherapy session. 

Should you notice recurring symptoms like discomfort, aching, or swelling, it might signal the need for additional treatments. It’s also worth noting that while uncommon, side effects such as mild cramping, scarring, or a temporary change in skin color can occur. These nuances are all part of the journey, so keeping an open dialogue with your specialist is crucial for navigating what’s normal and what might require a bit more attention. 

Ultimately, the decision to go for another round of treatment is yours, especially if your veins aren’t causing significant health concerns. If you find that vein-related discomfort is intruding on your day-to-day life or knocking your confidence, it could be time to think about further intervention. However, if the concerns are primarily cosmetic, there’s no pressure to rush back for more procedures unless it’s something you truly value.

Filed under: Spider Veins, Vein TreatmentTagged with: , , , , ,

illustration of a mirror reflection showing spider veins on the faceJust when you thought the spider veins on your legs were a problem, you notice them on your face. Yikes! But not to worry, this is completely normal. The skin on the face is thin, sensitive, and constantly exposed. It’s the perfect storm to develop spider veins.

 

The good news is, facial spider veins are preventable…or if it’s too late, treatable! Let’s talk about why they happen and how you can remove them for good. 

What Causes Spider Veins on the Face?

Spider veins form when the capillaries in the skin on your face become dilated. This happens from poor blood circulation and aging, damaged skin. Broken blood vessels on the face can develop at any age, but some people may have a higher chance of developing them than others.

Some causes of broken blood vessels on the face include:

  • Genetics: People with family members who experience spider veins are more likely to have them.
  • Excessive sun exposure: Sun damage can enlarge the blood vessels and draw them closer to the skin.
  • Changes in weather: Drastic changes in the weather can affect blood circulation, causing the skin on the face to flush. The blood vessels may burst and cause a spider vein to form. 
  • Changes in pressure: A sudden, extreme change in pressure can cause spider veins to appear. A hard sneeze or vomiting can cause this change in pressure. 
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also cause spider veins on the face. But they usually disappear after giving birth. 
  • Environmental irritants: Exposure to certain chemicals or environmental pollutants may damage the skin and make blood vessels more visible.
  • Rosacea: Rosacea is a common condition that causes fair skin to become flushed and red due to enlarged veins.
  • Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can dilate the blood vessels temporarily. Frequent alcohol consumption can lead to longer-lasting broken blood vessels and redness on the face. 
  • Injuries: Head injuries that cause bruising may cause broken blood vessels. In this case, the blood vessels usually heal when the bruise does. 

Home Remedies for Spider Veins on the Face

  • Cold compress: A simple cold compress, such as an ice pack or bag of frozen peas, can be applied to the face after sun or heat exposure. The cold may help reduce the appearance of burst blood vessels in the face.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar acts as an astringent on the skin, pulling it tight to reduce redness. This may help with the appearance of spider veins in some people.
  • Aloe vera: The gel from an aloe vera plant may be helpful in treating skin redness. Research has found that aloe vera could reduce redness but it tends to dry out the skin cells.
  • Vitamin C: Vitamin C supplements may help reduce the appearance of broken blood vessels on the face. It plays a key role in keeping the blood vessels healthy.

You can also treat spider vein removal professionally using methods like Sclerotherapy, Laser Therapy, or Intense Pulled Light (IPL) Therapy. Please note that Delaware Advanced Vein Center does not treat facial veins. 

How to Prevent Spider Veins on the Face

  • Avoid extreme heat: Very high temperatures from spas, saunas, or hot water may dilate the blood vessels and increase the chances of spider veins appearing.
  • Limit sun exposure: Wearing sunscreen, a hat, and long layers of clothing can help reduce the chances of spider veins from sun damage.
  • Wear protection: Protective gear may help avoid spider veins caused by an injury. Examples include facemasks and helmets for baseball, cycling, or riding a motorcycle.
  • Avoid vasodilators: Vasodilators cause vessels to fill with blood and may make spider veins more noticeable. Common vasodilators include caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol. 

illustration of a figure standing under the sun wearing a hat for protection

Spider veins cause no pain or additional symptoms, but it’s normal to be bothered by their appearance. If this sounds like you, try to determine the direct cause and take steps to treat and avoid them coming back. In some cases, broken blood vessels on the face may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Anyone uncertain about the cause of their spider veins should visit a vein specialist for a proper examination and diagnosis.

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We’ll be honest—getting spider veins in your 20s or 30s is pretty early. Because they’re much more prevalent later in life, having premature spider veins can give you reasonable cause for alarm. 

 

Although they look less than desirable, having spider veins is not the end of the world. There are logical explanations as to why they can happen in your 20s and 30s. And they can be remedied by a variety of simple lifestyle changes. So let’s start this journey to understanding and curing spider veins by explaining what they are. 

Why Do Spider Veins Develop?

 

Women in chair with spider veins on her legs.

You’re probably familiar with one of the most common vein conditions: varicose veins. Spider veins are different. They are smaller and closer to the skin’s surface. They can be bright red or blue, with jagged, short lines, resembling the look of spider webs. Spider veins usually appear on your legs but can also show up on your chest, arms, or face. 

 

Spider veins are typically the result of broken capillaries. Capillaries are small blood vessels near the skin’s surface that can become enlarged or dilated. When this happens, web-like patterns appear on the skin. 

 

Spider veins may be caused by weakened or damaged valves. The very valves responsible for making sure the blood in your veins flows towards your heart. When these valves are damaged, blood can flow the wrong way. This causes pooling and subsequent valve enlargement.

 

Weakened valves are not the only factor in the development of premature spider veins. The exact cause is actually unknown. It’s assumed to be linked to a variety of environmental and genetic factors. Let’s explain what risk factors could be contributing to spider veins in your 20s or 30s.

What Causes Premature Spider Veins to Form?

 

Having a family history of blood clots or varicose veins can put you at a higher risk for developing spider veins. But genetics isn’t the only cause. Many other elements can contribute to premature spider veins. So if you’re concerned about developing them, or have already spotted them on your skin, here are some additional risk factors to look out for:

Sun Exposure

 

UVA and UVB radiation from the sun can inflame blood vessels. This draws them closer to the skin, especially for those who are fair. Radiation can also weaken elasticity, causing the skin to become thinner and veins more visible. 

 

Excess sunlight can cause your capillaries to dilate and widen. This, as we’ve learned, leads to the development of spider veins. UVA and UVB radiation can also be a cause as they can damage blood vessels, thus enlarging them and putting you at further risk for spider veins.

Hormonal Changes

 

Hormone changes, especially for women on birth control or who are pregnant, can weaken your vein walls. That’s because estrogen levels increase along with your blood levels. This puts excess pressure on your veins, which may cause a potential burst. 

 

Progesterone can also lead to vein enlargement and thus spider veins. This hormone increases during pregnancy, making veins more susceptible to damage. 

Blood Pressure

 

Having high blood pressure in your 20s and 30s can put you at risk of developing premature spider veins. Because this condition causes blood flow restriction, veins are more likely to bulge and turn into spider veins on your skin. High blood pressure can also damage your blood vessels and vein walls, which is known to cause vein enlargement. 

 

Your blood pressure doesn’t have to be high for you to have spider veins. In fact, people with otherwise healthy blood pressure can temporarily alter their levels. This can occur when you experience sneezing or vomiting so intensely that it breaks your capillaries. Though unlikely this can be a reason why people in their 20s and 30s, who are less likely to have high blood pressure, could develop spider veins. 

Fair Skin

 

People of any skin tone can develop spider veins. But they are more apparent in those with fair skin. Because of the contrasting colors, the vibrant red and blue tones of spider veins are extra visible on lighter complexions. This can cause your skin to look flushed and red, resembling the appearance of a rash. 

Alcohol

 

You may have noticed that when you drink a lot of alcohol, your skin looks redder. This is also what makes spider veins more visible and more likely to form. Alcohol causes blood vessel dilation, elevated blood pressure, constricted blood flow and circulation, and increased pressure in your veins. All of these factors contribute to the formation of spider veins. 

High Heels

 

If you’re a fan of high heels, we have some unfortunate news. Stilettos, wedges, and platforms—basically any shoe that compromises pediatric function—can limit your calves’ ability to pump blood back up through your veins. And because of the discomfort you experience while wearing them, high heels can discourage you from walking. Whether caused by uncomfortable shoes or sedentary lifestyles, inactivity can put you at higher risk for developing spider veins.

Simple Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Spider Veins 

 

There are many lifestyle changes young people can make to either prohibit or treat the appearance of spider veins. Consider these tips and remedies for preventing spider veins in your 20s and 30s:

  • Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
  • Avoid extreme heat from hot showers, saunas, or beaches
  • Get regular physical activity to get your blood circulating and maintain a healthy weight
  • Refrain from excessive drinking

Worried About Spider Veins? Add This to Your To-do List

 

If you have spider veins there are a few treatments to consider. These depend on the severity of your spider veins and how much they bother you. And before you get them treated, it’s important to have your veins checked out by a certified vein specialist. Here are some options to consider:

  • Sclerotherapy: This is the most common and effective medical procedure for treating spider veins. A chemical is injected into your veins that blocks blood flow. It may take more than one round of treatment to address a vein.
  • Laser Treatment: This treatment applies strong surges of light to the affected area, causing the spider vein to fade away. The advantage of this procedure is that there are no incisions or needles involved. However, it may not be as effective as sclerotherapy. Redness, swelling, and skin discoloration are common side effects.

Don’t Let Spider Veins Hold You Back

 

Let’s clear up any fears of potential health issues by establishing that spider veins are purely cosmetic. Still, many people find their lives negatively affected by their appearance. This can be especially true when you develop spider veins in your 20s and 30s. 

 

If your spider veins are affecting your quality of life, it’s worth pursuing treatment. Or making lifestyle changes that could decrease your chances of forming spider veins. Doing either can make you feel more confident and even improve your overall health.

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