You've noticed those tiny little red and blue lines creeping up your legs or the veins on your face that just won't go away. They're known as spider veins, and they're a common skin concern that many people want to get rid of. Laser treatment is one of the most effective methods to remove spider veins. While laser vein therapy can successfully remove existing spider veins, it's important to understand that new spider veins may still form over time due to several underlying causes. In this article, you'll learn all about spider veins, how laser therapy works to eliminate them, and whether the results are truly permanent.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins (scientific name telangiectasias) are very small, thin blood vessels that lie close to the surface of the skin. When enlarged or dilated, they become visible through the skin as blue, red, or purple lines. The key characteristics that distinguish spider veins from other leg veins are their size (typically smaller than 1-2 mm in diameter) and feather-like or spider web-like pattern. Here are few common causes of spider veins:
Genetics - Some people have a genetic predisposition that makes them more likely to develop spider veins.
Pregnancy - Hormonal changes and weight gain during pregnancy can weaken vein walls and cause spider veins.
Prolonged standing or sitting - Spending long periods of time in positions where pressure is placed on the legs increases spider vein risk.
Lack of exercise - Poor circulation resulting from insufficient physical activity can contribute to spider vein development over time.
The laser treatment for spider veins
Surface laser therapy to remove spider veins is the one of the most effective and safe method. During treatment, the technician will use laser device, that targets the spider veins by emitting light energy absorbed by the blood vessel. This light energy generates heat to coagulate, or seal shut, the blood inside the vein so it collapses and fades away. Some laser equipment have a built-in cooling system that protects the surrounding skin from damage during each pulse.
Normally, spider veins 1-2mm or smaller respond best to this therapy. For larger veins or ones deeper in the skin, other alternatives like sclerotherapy may produce better results.
Multiple laser treatments are usually necessary to fully erase smaller spider veins permanently. Expect at least 2-4 sessions depending on the extent of veins and individual response. The technician will map out a custom treatment plan tailored just for you.
Effectiveness of laser vein therapy
Laser treatment effectively removes over 90% of spider veins when performed by an experienced laser technician at a medical spa. The vessels will gradually fade from dark blue to light red over the weeks following treatment as they are naturally absorbed by the body. Touch-ups may lighten remaining veins further.
While laser therapy provides a permanent solution for existing spider veins in most cases, it does not prevent new ones from developing. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with compression stockings, and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing is important to minimize regrowth.
Factors like aging, excessive sun exposure, weight gain, or heredity may still cause tiny new veins over time. Laser light treats what’s visible externally but does not address internal causes. For best results, it's a good idea to have annual checkups.
Benefits of laser spider veins removal
Some key advantages of spider vein treatment with laser include:
High effectiveness in treating smaller spider veins and reticular veins just below the skin's surface.
It's a minimally invasive procedure with minimal discomfort compared to sclerotherapy that involve injections.
Lasers used today like Nd:YAG are generally safe for all skin types including tanned skin.
Downtime is brief with little risk of side effects like bruising common to other treatments.
Long-lasting results can be achieved, in many cases permanently removing the spider veins.
Side effects
As with any cosmetic procedure, some risks and side effects are possible with laser treatment. Fortunately serious complications are very rare when performed by a good technician. These minor issues may include:
Temporary redness, swelling or bruising at the treatment sites which usually fades within a few days. Applying cold compresses can help reduce discomfort.
Infrequent cases of temporary skin color changes like hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation due to heat from the laser. These generally resolve on their own over weeks.
Can spider veins reappear?
While laser effectively eliminates spider veins, it's still possible for new ones to form over time. This is because laser spider vein treatment targets the visible vein but not the actual underlying cause. Here are the potential causes for new spider vein growth:
Genetic predispositions that impact blood flow or vein valve function could allow veins to reoccur if underlying issues aren't addressed.
Prolonged standing or sitting
Excess weight gain
Sun exposure
Those with a family history may experience quicker regrowth due to prone vein structures.
Regular exercise, wearing compression hosiery daily, and elevating legs as much as possible helps maintain healthy circulation and vein function. Having annual checkups allows any small return of spider veins to be retreated promptly before they become prominent again. Adopting a lifestyle geared towards supporting lower leg health is key for keeping laser results long-lasting.
Always choose the right treatment and service provider
Selecting an experienced provider is important when considering laser therapy for spider veins. Look for a laser clinic specializing in vein care, or dermatologist assistant with advanced training and credentials for safely operating the specific laser needed. Other factors that indicate a qualified specialist include:
Extensive experience successfully treating many patients.
Use of FDA-cleared medical lasers designed specifically for spider veins.
Offering various types to treat all vein sizes and depth levels.
Explaining treatment protocols and alternative options during a consultation.
Answering all your questions until you feel fully informed.
Providing realistic expectations and discussing potential risks upfront.
Make sure to discuss any health issues, medications, and allergies during your consultation. Together you can decide if laser therapy, or a different solution is right for eliminating your spider veins permanently.
Get rid of spider veins permanently in Fredericton
Here in Fredericton, Vibrant Salon and Spa is well known for safely removing spider veins using the latest laser technology. We have an Elite iQ+ equipped with an Nd:YAG laser, the gold standard for spider vein removal. During consultation, our laser technicians will examine your veins, determine the best treatment plan, and explain what to expect. You'll appreciate our comfortable, spa setting and discretion during this confidential procedure. Contact us to discuss the permanent spider vein removal solution that works for your individual needs.
Summary
Laser therapy has revolutionized the treatment of spider veins when performed properly by a qualified provider using recommended lasers:
It can permanently eliminate over 90% of existing spider veins in two or four non-invasive treatments with minimal discomfort or downtime.
Short-term side effects like minor bruising or redness are uncommon and resolve quickly.
New spider veins may potentially form over time due to lifestyle factors or underlying causes, so preventive self-care is advised.
Annual checkups allow prompt re-treatment if new veins appear and maintain beautiful vein free skin permanently.
High-success rates are achievable when entrusting your care to an experienced laser specialist.
FAQs about laser treatment for spider veins
How many laser treatments are needed for spider veins?
The number of laser sessions varies based on the size of spider veins but most patients see great results just after 2nd session. Smaller veins usually just need one session while larger clusters may require up to 4 treatments.
Can I have laser session if I have a tan?
Thanks to the abilities of Nd:YAG lasers used at Vibrant Salon and Spa, you can still receive highly effective laser treatment for spider veins even if you have tan skin. This laser is able to differentiate between hemoglobin in the blood vessels and melanin pigment in tanned skin. It minimizes the risks of skin discoloration some older technologies posed.
Is Laser Therapy painful?
While laser treatment for spider veins involves no injections, some localized discomfort can be expected. The laser technician will use a topical numbing cream to reduce any pain or heat sensation from the pulses of light energy. Most liken the quick sensations to a mild snap of a rubber band on the skin or a brief pinprick feeling.
What type of lasers do you have?
At Vibrant Salon and Spa, we exclusively use the globally acclaimed Elite iQ+ laser platform for all our skin treatments. This next-generation system features an Nd:YAG laser specially designed for safely and effectively removing thread and varicose veins.