Spider veins affect millions of American adults. Although these tiny web-like veins don’t protrude from the skin like varicose veins, they’re still unsightly. If you’re dealing with spider veins, you no longer have to hide or alter your wardrobe and activities.

At Ashburn Laser & Skincare Clinic, we offer a range of laser and body contouring skin treatments in Ashburn, Virginia. Our team includes master esthetician Massie Zekri and medical director Nasrin Ejtemaee, MD.

What causes spider veins?

When veins become weak or damaged, the blood that normally flows back to the heart pools near the surface of the skin and causes the red and purple web-like spider veins that commonly develop in the legs and face.

Though similar to varicose veins, spider veins are smaller and, therefore, don’t protrude through the skin like varicose veins.

Spider veins are incredibly common, but there are a few factors that can increase your risk of developing them:

• Age
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Pregnancy and/or hormonal changes
• Obesity or being significantly overweight
• Standing or being on your feet for long periods of time

How to lower your risk of spider veins

There are several things you can do to lower your risk of developing varicose and spider veins, including:

• Getting regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Wearing compression stockings
• Elevating your feet
• Resting

Healthy circulation and strong legs are your best defense against developing vein disease and spider veins, especially as you get older.

How do you treat spider veins?

At Ashburn Laser & Skincare Clinic, we use lasers as a minimally invasive treatment for spider veins. Light from the laser heats the damaged vein and destroys it without damaging the surrounding skin or tissue.

The procedure is quick and easy, and most of our patients return to their normal activities within a day of the treatment. But you do have to wear compression stockings for a time after the treatment.

After your laser treatment, you’ll have to protect your skin from sun exposure. In addition to increasing your risk of skin cancer, sun spots, and premature aging, sun exposure can also exacerbate spider veins by causing the veins to dilate and become weaker.

In addition to recommending the best treatment options, our team devises the best regime to keep your skin looking and feeling its best at every age.

For more information about laser therapy and spider vein treatment, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Ashburn, Virginia, location.