Varicose and spider veins

varicose and spider veinsSkin Issues: varicose and spider veins

Treatments for varicose and spider veins include sclerotherapy, radiofrequency,  laser ablation and surgery. They are described in more detail in ‘Beauty: The Ultimate Cosmetic Makeover Guide. Book 1: Face and Skin’.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins look like knobbly, twisted and darkish-blue cables just beneath the skin. They are most commonly found on the legs. They are caused by faulty valves within veins that allow the blood to pool.

Spider veins

Spider veins, also known as thread veins, are smaller, more easily visible veins which are closer to the skin surface. They are mostly found on the legs or face. Long-term use of potent steroid creams may also cause spider veins. Factors that can increase your chance of developing spider veins include:

  • spending a lot of time on your feet
  • being overweight
  • getting older
  • having a family history of spider veins
  • pregnancy
  • taking the oral contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • the face being exposed to the sun

Prevention of varicose and spider veins

Some suggestions that may help to prevent varicose and spider veins include:

  • Wearing support stockings.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Exercising regularly.
  • Avoiding wearing high heels, because they harm the correct functioning of the larger veins.
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