Understanding Why Spider Veins Appear

If you are reading this, you may have noticed small red, blue, or purple veins appearing close to the surface of your skin. These are termed thread veins, also known as telangiectasia, or sometimes spider veins, and often appear on your face or legs. They may cause no discomfort, but their presence may be affecting how you view your skin. 

What Are Thread Veins?

Thread veins measure a few millimetres or less and tend to occur in areas beneath the skin in areas of thinner skin. They often form when blood vessels weaken and dilate (expand). They can appear anywhere on the body but most patients will notice them around the cheeks, nose, or thighs. It is assumed that as skin becomes thinner and loses both collagen and subsequently, elasticity, veins on the face become more of a possibility.

Why Do Thread Veins Develop?

Genetics

If a close relative experiences thread veins, you may be genetically predisposed. You may still get thread veins. Even if you carefully follow all the preventive steps you can take, this inherited factor may influence how readily they appear. 

Lifestyle

Your daily habits can place pressure on blood vessels, causing them to become more visible. You may find that prolonged sitting or standing, as well as crossing your legs, affects circulation. Staying active (less sitting) and maintaining a suitable body weight can help reduce pressure on these vessels. Limiting your alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking also support a more healthy blood flow, and in turn, healthy blood vessels. Avoiding tight-fitting clothing is often recommended, as are high heels.

Hormonal Changes

Shifts in hormone levels can affect vein walls. You may experience thread veins during pregnancy, menopause, or while using certain contraceptives or hormone replacement therapies. These hormonal changes may cause increased blood volume, placing further strain on vessel walls.

Environment and External Factors

Excessive sun exposure can damage skin and weaken vein walls, so applying sun protection is, as always, advisable. Exposure to very hot or cold conditions may also have a bearing on how these veins develop.

Underlying Conditions

You may develop thread veins if you experience other skin conditions, such as rosacea. In some cases, they appear following skin trauma or injury. Changes in blood pressure and existing circulation problems can also be associated with underlying issues that may cause thread veins.

Spider Vein Prevention

You can take steps to limit their appearance. Wear broad-spectrum SPF daily, avoid extended sun exposure, maintain a balanced diet, and stay hydrated. Consider breaks if your job requires sitting for long hours. A healthcare professional may advise compression stockings if you are prone to visible veins in your legs.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

If thread veins affect how you feel about your skin, you can seek professional guidance. Treatments commonly provided at aesthetic clinics include various minimally invasive options:

• IPL or Laser Therapy: Concentrated light targets and heats these vessels. The heat causes them to fade gradually.
• Electrocautery: A fine probe delivers heat energy to seal off affected veins.
• Combination Approaches: Tailored plans may involve several methods, depending on your skin type, age, and overall health.

What to Expect from Treatment

Most procedures require only a brief appointment. Mild redness, swelling, or sensitivity may occur, but this often resolves within hours or days. A small bruise is a possibility. Each treatment option has a different cost range and, it's important to keep in mind, may require multiple sessions. Following guidance from a qualified practitioner supports a safe experience and may improve treatment outcomes. For more insights, view our Thread Vein Removal Before and After examples.

Thread Veins VS Varicose Veins

The two vascular concerns are similar, but there are some differences between thread veins and varicose veins. Both conditions involve damaged veins, but they vary a lot in appearance and size. Thread veins are typically small, thin, and red or blue, appearing close to the surface of the skin, often on the face or legs. In contrast, varicose veins are larger spider veins, often bulging and more prominent, typically appearing on the lower legs feet and ankles. For many patients, the appearance of spider veins or varicose veins can be a significant cosmetic concern, and these enlarged veins may require intervention. Although they are both vein diseases and need vein treatment, they are addressed differently. While both thread veins on the legs and varicose vein treatment are available, they utilise different techniques. You might get varicose veins at some point in your life, and veins may need vein treatment to improve both appearance and comfort.

Arrange a Consultation

If you are concerned about the appearance of thread veins, arrange a consultation with our experienced practitioners. We will help you identify a suitable treatment plan and consider any medical or lifestyle factors that may influence results. At Aesthetica Medical, we aim to personalise your experience, addressing your individual needs and providing clear-as-day information before you proceed. Not ready to book a consultation, but want more information? Feel free to drop us a message through our contact form.