Spider veins are small, widened blood vessels near the skin’s surface that look like red, blue or purple webs, most often on the legs and face. Paz Dermatology treats spider veins at its Fresno and Visalia, California offices with sclerotherapy and VBeam laser.
Small veins you can see
Spider veins are small versions of varicose veins.[2] They form when tiny one-way valves inside veins weaken, so some blood flows backward and pools, and the vein walls bulge.[1]
They’re usually a cosmetic concern, and they respond well to treatment.
What they look like
- Thin red, blue or purple lines
- Web or branch-like clusters
- Small starbursts around the knees or ankles
- Fine red lines on the face
- 3 to 6 weeksHow long spider veins usually take to disappear after sclerotherapy.[1]
Why spider veins appear
- Family history If blood relatives have them, your risk is higher.[1]
- Long hours on your feet or seated Standing or sitting for long periods puts extra pressure on leg veins.[1]
- Hormones and pregnancy Pregnancy and hormonal changes are common triggers.[1]
- Sun and injury Spider veins can also be caused by sunlight or an injury.[1]
- 2 or 3Sclerotherapy treatments many people need for the best results.[1]
Matching the treatment to your veins
| If your veins are | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| On your legs | Sclerotherapy | The most common treatment for leg veins; spider veins usually fade in 3 to 6 weeks[1] |
| Very fine, or on your face | VBeam | A laser FDA-cleared for facial and leg vessels[3] |
| A mix of sizes | Often both | Each size responds best to its own treatment |
Your free consultation looks at your veins and recommends the right approach. For redness and small vessels on your face, see that page too.
Where spider veins show up
| Area | What you might see |
|---|---|
| Thighs | Webs of red and blue lines |
| Behind the knees | Small clusters |
| Calves and ankles | Fine veins and starbursts |
| Face | Fine red lines on the nose and cheeks |
- Next dayWhen most people return to work and activities after sclerotherapy.[1]
The Paz difference
Two ways to clear veins, one careful look first
With both sclerotherapy and VBeam here, you get the treatment that fits your veins. And because a physical exam helps decide whether leg vein treatment is safe for you,[1] your legs are examined before anything is planned.
When to talk to us
It’s a good time if:
- Spider veins make you self-conscious in shorts or swimsuits
- New veins keep appearing
- You’d like clearer legs for an event or season
See a doctor promptly if you have:
- Leg pain, swelling or heaviness
- Skin changes or sores near a vein
- A vein that is hard, warm or tender
Services we offer
Both clear spider veins, in different ways. Pick one to see how it works.
What treatment costs
Cost depends on how many veins you treat and how many sessions you need. Your consultation is free, and you’ll know your plan and its cost before anything happens.
Spider vein questions, answered
Usually not. They’re mainly a cosmetic concern. Leg pain, swelling or skin changes are worth a medical visit.
For leg veins, sclerotherapy is the most common treatment.[1] Laser suits very fine veins and those on the face.
Many people need 2 or 3 sclerotherapy treatments.[1]
Treated veins close, but new ones can form over time, especially with family history or long hours on your feet.
It’s best to wait. Pregnancy is a common cause, and many veins improve after delivery.
Most people are back to work and activities the next day.[1]
