Spider veins are the small purple and red lines found on the face, legs and hands. They are usually just a cosmetic concern and are rarely a serious health issue. However, they can be unattractive and make the sufferer very self-conscious. Women and men suffer from spider veins, but they occur more often in women. They can be caused by pregnancy, weight gain, prolonged standing or sitting, or hormones. They may also be inherited. One of the most common and effective treatments for spider veins is sclerotherapy. A sclerosing fluid is injected into the veins, and the veins collapse and fade. The total number of sclerotherapy treatments vary with each patient.

 After one treatment, the veins may fade, but more treatments are usually necessary for permanent results. The average number of treatments is between 2 and 6, and can require 5 to 40 injections of the fluid. A session usually lasts about 30 minutes. The needles used for the treatment are very tiny, and there is usually little to no pain involved. Doctors have been using sclerotherapy for more than 20 years in the treatment of spider veins, and it is highly effective. There are usually no complications, but there may be bruising or itching at the site. After treatment, wearing a compression garment or a bandage helps healing. Lasers are a new tool in the treatment of treat spider veins. A strong pulse of light is directed at the vein and destroys it. After a few weeks, the body absorbs the vein. Applying a topical anesthetic before treatment helps minimize any pain from the laser. The laser also has a cooling tip to counteract the heat. Again, several treatments are necessary to remove all of the spider veins. Lasers are useful for the superficial veins and not the deeper spider veins. While effective, not all skin types and skin colors are suitable for laser treatment.

 It is essential to consult a physician with any questions about spider vein treatment. While it is relatively painless, there can still be some complications. It is surgery, and needs to be performed by a qualified provider. Treated spider veins do not return, but new ones may develop.