Spider veins, also called telangiectasias, are clusters of tiny blood vessels that develop close to the surface of the skin. They are often red, blue, or purple; and they have the appearance of a spider web. They are commonly found on the face and legs.
What Causes Leg Veins?
Spider veins on the legs are primarily caused by venous insufficiency, a condition whereby poor blood flow creates a pooling of blood in the veins. With age, the veins lose their elasticity and begin to stretch, while the valves within the veins weaken and allow blood to flow backwards.
Additional factors besides ageing include heredity, pregnancy, hormonal shifts, weight gain and occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing.
What Causes Facial Veins?
Facial veins are usually found on the forehead, nose, cheeks, eyelids, neck, and upper chest. Blood vessel dilation is due to weakening of the elastic fibers in the walls of the vein and associated with excessive sun exposure, normal aging, steroid use, genetics, radiation therapy, and physical trauma. Facial veins can range in size from the tip of a pencil to bigger than a pencil eraser.
Therapy For Veins
Laser treatment uses a focused beam of light that heats and damages the affected blood vessel, which eventually fades. Potential side effects include minor redness or swelling around the treated area. Several sessions are frequently necessary for optimal results with laser therapy.