IPL | Skin Rejuvenation

Can You Get Rid Of Spider Veins?

Yes! You can get rid of spider veins. Advanced solutions like IPL photofacials use targeted light energy to dramatically reduce discoloration and bring you clearer skin. A personalized treatment plan will help you achieve a smoother, more even-skin tone. But remember that IPL photofacials are only suitable for skin types I and II on the Fitzpatrick scale.

What Are Spider Veins? 

Spider veins are small broken capillaries that are colored red, purple, or blue. They twist and turn and are most visible on the legs and face. While spider veins don’t typically cause medical problems, they can be reduced or eliminated for medical or cosmetic reasons with procedures such as IPL photofacials.

Why Do People Get Spider Veins

Who gets spider veins? Spider veins are caused by increased pressure in the veins. While doctors don’t know exactly why some people develop spider veins and others don’t, they do know that the tendency to get them is hereditary and that they’re more common as you get older. It’s also known that people who stand for a long time, such as nurses and teachers, tend to increase the amount of pressure in the veins of the legs, and are therefore more likely to develop spider veins. 

What Are The Main Causes of Spider Veins?

  • Genetics: A family history of spider veins can increase your chances of developing them.
  • Aging: As we get older, our veins and their valves may weaken, which can make spider veins more likely.
  • Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Jobs that involve long periods of standing or sitting can put extra pressure on leg veins, raising the risk of spider veins.
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, menopause, or with birth control, can influence blood flow and vein elasticity, potentially leading to spider veins.
  • Sun Exposure: Too much sun can cause spider veins to appear on the face, particularly around the nose and cheeks.

What Are Common Symptoms of Spider Veins?

Spider veins can cause more than just visible marks; they may lead to swelling, heaviness, and fatigue in your legs, especially after standing or walking for long periods. These symptoms are signs of increased pressure in your veins, which can worsen over time.

How To Prevent Spider Veins

But let’s talk about prevention first before tackling treatments. How can you lower your risk of ending up with spider veins? Here are a few tips:

  • Relieve some pressure. You can try to lessen the pressure on your legs that can lead to spider veins by keeping your weight down and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods. Experts recommend taking a walk every 30 minutes if you have to sit for long periods and avoiding crossing your legs while seated.
  • Keep the blood flowing. Exercising your legs by running or walking can increase leg circulation and strengthen your leg muscles.
  • Get support. If you’re going to be on your feet, you should wear a lightweight compression stocking, which can go a long way towards preventing and managing spider vein symptoms, including swelling. Try a lightweight compression sock with a gradient of 15 or 20 milliliters of mercury (a measure of how much pressure it puts on your veins). You can find these stockings in pharmacies and medical supply stores.
  • Prop up your feet. Elevating your legs is another main treatment for spider veins. Your legs must be elevated higher than your heart for best effect.
  • Slather on sunscreen. If you have light skin, sun exposure can lead to spider veins on your cheeks or nose, so wear sunscreen to minimize the damage.
  • Treat existing varicose veins. Varicose veins are larger, ropy-looking veins with nonworking valves, a problem that allows blood to collect inside them. Having your varicose veins treated can reduce the pressure in the legs and prevent the development of additional spider veins.

How to Get Rid of Those Spiders Veins for Good 

If you already have spider veins, don’t fret. There are two We offer spider vein treatments that effortlessly banish spider veins for good:

IPL photofacials

 IPL photofacials work by using a broad-spectrum light source that penetrates multiple layers of skin. This type of photofacial primarily targets the lower layers of skin (dermis) while leaving the top layers of skin (epidermis) unaffected. The heat generated from the light promotes healing of the skin within, treating a number of different dermatological issues, such as spider veins in the face.

Before the IPL treatment, your clinician will apply a cold gel to the target area, and they’ll also give you protective eyewear. The treatment lasts around 20 minutes, during which your clinician will gently apply the IPL handpiece to your skin so that healing light rays can be delivered to the skin’s surface using precise pulses. Does it hurt? The treatment can be a little uncomfortable, but tolerable. Some of our patients describe it as being similar to a rubber band snapped against their skin.

IPL results can be pretty subtle at first, but they get better with each session—how many you’ll need depends on your skin. A lot of our patients go through multiple treatments to hit their SkinFitness™ goals, but it’s different for everyone. One thing that’s non-negotiable? Sun protection! Slather on that SPF and throw on a wide-brimmed hat or long sleeves before and after your treatment to get the best results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for IPL Photofacials?

IPL photofacials are ideal for individuals looking to improve skin tone, eliminate redness, and reduce spider veins. It’s safe and effective for those with skin types I and II only (fair skin). 

What Should I Expect After IPL Treatment?

After your IPL treatment, here’s what you can expect during the recovery process: 

  • You may experience mild redness or a sunburn-like sensation right after the treatment, but don’t worry—it usually fades within a few hours.
  • There’s virtually no downtime! You can get back to your normal routine immediately after the procedure.
  • Skin will continue to improve over the next few weeks, with results becoming more noticeable after each treatment.
  • To get the best results, be sure to follow any post-care instructions provided by your expert team at LaserAway.

More Questions about Spider Vein Removal? We’ve Got Answers. 

  • Does spider vein removal hurt? Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snap, like a rubber band against the skin. Any discomfort is minimal, and cooling technology helps keep treatments comfortable.
  • How many sessions do I need to remove my spider veins? Most patients see results after a series of sessions, but the exact number depends on the size and depth of your spider veins. A customized treatment plan will get you the best results.
  • How soon will I see results? You’ll start noticing fading after a few sessions, with full results appearing after a few months as your body naturally clears the treated veins.
  • Is there any downtime? Nope! You can go about your day right after treatment—just be sure to follow our aftercare instructions carefully. 

Are results permanent? Treated veins won’t come back, but new ones can form over time. Regular maintenance treatments and good skincare can help keep your legs looking flawless.

Why LaserAway?

We’ve committed over a decade to helping people of all skin types discover their best skin ever, with over 5 million treatments performed and new locations opening every month! We use state-of-the-art technology for maximum results, our clinics are supervised by board-certified, industry-leading dermatologists, and our treatments are implemented by registered nurses, nurse practitioners or physician associates who undergo one of the most comprehensive training programs in the business. Our mission is to make our clients feel beautiful by providing the best and most effective aesthetic treatments in the nation in a friendly, relaxed environment.

Ready to invest in yourself? Schedule a free consultation today by filling out a request form or calling the LaserAway staff at (855) 233-9134. Our nurses look forward to making sure your service and skin are as smooth as possible!