{"id":14736,"date":"2026-10-06T19:24:05","date_gmt":"2026-10-06T18:24:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/blog\/spider-veins-what-they-are-why-they-appear-and-how-to-eliminate-them\/"},"modified":"2026-10-16T19:29:06","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T18:29:06","slug":"spider-veins-what-they-are-why-they-appear-and-how-to-eliminate-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/blog\/spider-veins-what-they-are-why-they-appear-and-how-to-eliminate-them\/","title":{"rendered":"Spider veins: what they are, why they appear and how to eliminate them"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spider veins are small blood vessels in the skin that dilate and become visible, appearing as fine red, blue or purple lines. They are mainly an aesthetic concern, not a health risk, and can be treated with sclerotherapy or laser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They can appear for several reasons and there are treatments to improve their appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are spider veins?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are capillaries and other very small blood vessels that widen near the skin&#8217;s surface. Despite their name, they are not veins: they are smaller vessels that connect with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They get their name because they form networks of fine lines that resemble a spider web or tree branches. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the legs, hands and face. Since they are visible, they are usually a concern mainly for aesthetic reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By themselves they are usually harmless, although sometimes they indicate venous insufficiency. Sometimes they cause itching, burning or pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you notice spider veins, it is advisable to have them examined by a professional to rule out a circulatory problem. If there is none, you can opt for aesthetic treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do they appear? Causes and risk factors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact causes of spider veins are not fully known. They can arise from hereditary factors, pregnancy, trauma, aging, sun damage and even hormonal influences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The risk factors or what can make spider veins more likely to appear are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hormonal:<\/strong> pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy for menopause.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heredity:<\/strong> having close family members with spider veins or varicose veins.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Habits:<\/strong> spending many hours standing or sitting, being obese, smoking and excessive sun exposure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Other:<\/strong> trauma to the area and aging.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spider veins on the legs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the legs, the finest ones (less than 1 mm) are usually red or pink and flat. The bluish vessels of 1 to 3 mm, slightly raised, are actually reticular veins, which are sometimes confused with spider veins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spider veins, varicose veins or lipedema?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spider veins, varicose veins and <a href=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/lipedema\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"11075\">lipedema in the legs<\/a> are three conditions that affect the legs and are often confused. One person can have lipedema and venous insufficiency, or spider veins and varicose veins at the same time. Here&#8217;s how they differ:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><\/th><th>Spider veins<\/th><th>Varicose veins<\/th><th>Lipedema<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>What is it?<\/strong><\/td><td>Dilation of the smallest blood vessels in the skin (telangiectasias)<\/td><td>Superficial veins that are dilated and twisted due to malfunction of the venous valves (venous insufficiency).<\/td><td>Chronic disorder of fat distribution: symmetric and painful accumulation of fatty tissue.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Appearance<\/strong><\/td><td>Fine red, purple or bluish lines, in the form of branches or spider web, <strong>without relief<\/strong>.<\/td><td>Bluish or greenish cords, <strong>bulging<\/strong> and tortuous, that can be felt.<\/td><td>Legs (sometimes arms) disproportionate to the torso; soft skin with nodules to the touch.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Vessel size<\/strong><\/td><td>Very fine (up to 1 mm approx.).<\/td><td>More than 3 mm approx.<\/td><td>Not a vessel problem, but rather a fatty tissue issue.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Where does it appear?<\/strong><\/td><td>Legs, can also appear on hands and face.<\/td><td>Inner thigh, calf, behind the knee.<\/td><td>Arms and legs.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Symmetry<\/strong><\/td><td>Can affect only one leg.<\/td><td>Frequent in one leg more than the other.<\/td><td><strong>Symmetric<\/strong>: both legs or arms equally.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Symptoms<\/strong><\/td><td>Normally none. Sometimes mild itching or burning.<\/td><td>Heaviness, swelling at the end of the day, cramps, itching; in advanced cases, skin discoloration or ulcers.<\/td><td>Pain to touch or pressure, heaviness, easy bruising.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Who does it affect?<\/strong><\/td><td>Very common in women.<\/td><td>More common in women.<\/td><td>Almost exclusively women.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cause<\/strong><\/td><td>Hormones, heredity, sun and pressure on veins. Sometimes there is underlying venous insufficiency.<\/td><td>Failure of the venous valves, which causes blood to accumulate.<\/td><td>Not fully understood; related to hormonal and genetic factors.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Responds to diet and exercise<\/strong><\/td><td>Not related.<\/td><td>Overweight worsens it and exercise helps circulation.<\/td><td>Lipedema fat responds poorly to diet and exercise, although both are recommended.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Diagnosis<\/strong><\/td><td>Visual examination; duplex ultrasound if venous insufficiency is suspected.<\/td><td>Physical examination and venous duplex ultrasound.<\/td><td><strong>Clinical<\/strong> (history and examination), lymphedema, obesity and venous insufficiency are ruled out.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Usual treatment<\/strong><\/td><td>Sclerotherapy, laser or pulsed light.<\/td><td>Compression stockings, foam sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation or surgery, depending on the case.<\/td><td>Conservative treatments and surgical treatment through WAL liposuction.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Possible complications<\/strong><\/td><td>Rarely; mainly aesthetic.<\/td><td>Phlebitis, thrombosis, venous ulcers, hemorrhage.<\/td><td>Can progress to lipolymphedema; limitation of mobility and emotional impact.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This table is for guidance; diagnosis must be made by a medical specialist.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sclerotherapy: the most common treatment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It consists of injecting with a very fine needle a product, liquid or foam, that irritates the vessel wall until it closes and stops carrying blood. Over time, the body reabsorbs it and the spider vein gradually disappears. It is the most common option for the legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before starting, the specialist examines the area and, if they suspect an underlying venous problem, may request a duplex ultrasound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The treatment eliminates the spider veins that already exist, but does not prevent new ones from appearing, which is why several sessions are sometimes needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Like any medical treatment, sclerotherapy can have adverse effects such as transient hyperpigmentation, appearance of new fine spider veins, allergy to the components used, pain and, rarely, phlebitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"960\" src=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares.jpg\" alt=\"spider veins treatment\" class=\"wp-image-14616\" style=\"width:437px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares.jpg 640w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-350x525.jpg 350w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-370x555.jpg 370w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-255x383.jpg 255w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-285x428.jpg 285w, https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tratamiento-aranas-vasculares-600x900.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other options: vascular laser<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vascular laser is a non-invasive method for treating spider veins. It is recommended for those who have spider veins on the face, where sclerotherapy is not usually used, or for those who are allergic to the agents used in this treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The laser emits light that is absorbed by the blood in the vessel. As it heats up, the vessel closes and the body eventually reabsorbs it, with damage limited to the surrounding skin. Several sessions are usually needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laser has certain risks, such as the appearance of blisters, crusts and swelling in the area. Laser is not recommended during pregnancy or with anticoagulants, and requires caution after recent tanning or with dark skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to prevent them from appearing again<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some ways to prevent spider veins from appearing are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Change position often: walk a bit if you spend a lot of time sitting, or sit for a few minutes if you are standing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Move ankles and calves when you need to stay still for a long time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exercise regularly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain a healthy weight.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Elevate your legs for a while at the end of the day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not smoke and protect yourself from the sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid very tight clothing in the area.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to act when you have spider veins?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consult a specialist if you have a vessel with swollen, red or discolored appearance, or if it feels warm or painful to the touch. Also, if you notice a rash, sores or changes in skin color, or if you have cramps or burning in the legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, it should be determined whether there is venous insufficiency and then the best treatment option is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have spider veins, you can consult with our surgeons: <a href=\"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/valoracion-online\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"4556\">Request an appointment for an assessment<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1791226448783\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How many sclerotherapy sessions are needed?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Several sessions are usually needed. The exact number of sessions will be indicated by the specialist after an assessment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1791226494486\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Does sclerotherapy hurt and do I need to rest? <\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Sclerotherapy usually causes mild discomfort. You may feel the needle pricks and some stinging when the products are injected during the session and afterwards some sensation of tightness or heaviness in the area, as well as minor discomfort.u003cbru003eMost people do not require a recovery period, you can walk shortly after the treatment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1791293236259\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can spider veins reappear after treatment? <\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, the treatment eliminates the spider veins you already have, but it cannot prevent others from appearing if risk factors persist. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s important to follow recommendations on their prevention.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1791293292680\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can sclerotherapy be done during pregnancy or breastfeeding? <\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, it is best not to have this treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1791293881423\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Sclerotherapy or laser for spider veins?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Sclerotherapy is the most common option for the legs. Laser is used mainly on the face and for very fine spider veins.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">References:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cleveland Clinic, Spider Veins, <a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/24567-spider-veins\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/24567-spider-veins<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sandean, D. P., Syed, H. A. and Winters, R., Spider Veins, StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK563218\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK563218\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nakano, L. C. and others, Treatment of telangiectasias and reticular veins, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2021, CD012723, <a href=\"https:\/\/cochrane.org\/es\/CD012723\/PVD_tratamiento-de-las-telangiectasias-y-las-venas-reticulares\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/cochrane.org\/es\/CD012723\/PVD_tratamiento-de-las-telangiectasias-y-las-venas-reticulares<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spanish Association of Lymphedema and Lipedema, <a href=\"https:\/\/aelinfedema.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Consenso-Lipedema-2018.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/aelinfedema.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Consenso-Lipedema-2018.pdf<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Spider veins are small blood vessels in the skin that dilate and become visible, appearing as fine red, blue or purple lines. They are mainly an aesthetic concern, not a health risk, and can be treated with sclerotherapy or laser. They can appear for several reasons and there are treatments to improve their appearance. What [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":14615,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_mbp_gutenberg_autopost":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14736","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sin-categorizar"],"modified_by":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14736","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14736"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14736\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14615"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14736"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14736"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sculptureclinic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14736"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}