Unsightly leg and facial spider veins – those small, unsightly clusters of red or purple veins that usually appear on the thighs, calves, ankles and occasionally the face, can be a problem for millions of men and women the world over. The problem affects a wide range of age groups, skin types and lifestyles. While they may not be medical emergencies, most would rather be rid of these unattractive distractions to their natural beauty.

Until recently, the treatment of unsightly spider veins was a lengthy and painful process that involved needles or other invasive techniques. Today with advanced technologies, leg and facial spider veins and redness of the face can be dramatically reduced - if not eliminated.

Hollywood Body Laser Center offers excellent treatment of leg and facial spider veins and redness of the face. At Hollywood Body Laser Center, we provide two distinct options for reducing or eliminating these sometimes embarrassing conditions – Laser Treatment and IPL Photorejuvenaton:

1. Laser Treatment Lasers
   are an excellent method of spot treating larger facial or leg veins. With lasers, we customize your treatment to delivery precise dosages of energy through a special handpiece to each targeted vein without damaging the surrounding skin. The energy is absorbed by the vein causing thermal coagulation of the blood in the vessel. Over a short period of time the vessel is absorbed by the body. One treatment is often sufficient, but multiple treatments may be necessary.
   
   
2. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photorejuvenation
   IPL Photorejuenation or Photo Facial, is very effective when treatment involves a whole network of tiny veins such as facial veins and veins associated with flushing of the skin and rosacea. IPLtm is applied via a series of gentle light pulses over the treatment area. As the light penetrates the skin it is absorbed by small surface blood vessels or pigmentation. The heat generated by the absorbed energy causes thermal damage to the tine vessels which are then reabsorbed by the body as part of its own natural healing process. There typically is no down-time associated with this treatement with which usually occur over 4 – 6 sessions. This treatment is especially effective in reducing redness associated with rosacea.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are small, thin superficial capillaries that lie close to the surface of the skin. They can look like tree branches or a spider web with their short jagged lines. They are connected to the larger venous system though they are not an essential part of it as they do not actually carry blood to the heart. Spider veins can be found on both the legs and the face and can cover both very small and very large areas of skin.

What Causes Spider Veins?

No one knows exactly the cause of spider veins, but several factors including heredity are believed to cause a person to be more likely to develop them. Oral contraceptives, hormone changes and therapy, sun exposure and the natural aging process also may contribute to their development. Spider veins may also be related to rosacea, and other trauma to the skin or may be heredity.

How do treatments work?

Photorejuvenation  technologies deliver precise dosages of energy to targeted veins with minimal risk to surrounding healty skin. The energy is absorbed by the targeted vein(s) causing thermal coagulation of the blood in the vessel. 

What do treatments feel like?

Most experience little if any discomfort at the treatment site. The sensation and the degree of discomfort varies with each person. When pulses of light are delivered some patients feel a mild pinching or stinging sensation. Similar to the light snap of a rubber band. No local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required, however some patients may prefer to use a topical anesthetic when sensitive areas are treated.

How many treatments will I need?

Typically, 3 to 6 treatments offer the best results; Depending on severity, clients usually notice significant improvement within one to two treatments. Potential for maximum long-term resolutions increases after another 1 – 2 sessions.

Will the veins return after treatment?

Over time it is possible for new veins to appear, but these too can be erased. Optimal results can be maintained only if you apply sunscreen and avoid exposure to the sun.

How can I prevent spider veins?

You can do a number of things to help prevent veins and to relieve discomfort from those you have:

• Protect your skin form the sun by wearing sunscreen to limit spider veins on the face
• Exercise regulary to maintain or improve leg strength, circulation and vein strength. Focus on exercises that work your legs, such as walking or running.
• Avoid placing too much pressure on your legs by controlling your weight
• Avoid standing for long periods of time. If you must stand for long periods, shift you weight from one leg to the other every few minutes. If you must sit for long periods, stand up, move around, or take a short walk every 30 minutes.

Back to Top