Spider veins are tiny, web-like proliferations of superficial veins that appear red, blue or purple at the skin's surface. They are usually found on the upper and lower legs, upper back and face. Though spider veins do not typically cause symptoms, Women's Health says that they may indicate deeper venous circulation problems which should not be ignored. Spider veins can be caused by hormone changes, sun damage, trauma or injury, poor blood circulation and weakened venous walls. Though treatments such as laser and sclerotherapy injections help remove unsightly spider veins, they do not address the cause. Certain vitamins can improve vein health and prevent the formation of spider veins.
Step 1
Take vitamin C to improve wall strength in veins and prevent by producing the connective tissue molecules collagen and elastin. Healthy, more elastic venous walls can resist pressure without dilating and damaging the valves. Take 500 to 3,000mg of vitamin C per day, as recommended by MotherNature.com. These high concentrations are only available in vitamin C supplements.
Step 2
Take vitamin E supplements to help prevent blood clots that can lead to varicose and spider veins and other problems. Vitamin E prevents blood cells from excessively adhering to each other or to blood vessel walls. Take 200 to 600 international units of vitamin E daily, as recommended by MotherNature.com. However, if you are taking anticoagulant or prescription blood-thinning medications, do not take vitamin E.
Step 3
Take vitamin B complex, which contains folate or folic acid and vitamin B6, to maintain the health of the walls of the veins. These vitamins reduce levels of an amino acid called homocysteine, which damages the venous walls. Take 2.5mg of folic acid and vitamin B6, or take a B-complex vitamin that contains these concentrations.
Step 4
Apply a vitamin K cream, which is also called phytonadione to prevent leaking from veins. This causes spider veins, redness, dark circles under the eyes and bruising. bleeding. Use a topical vitamin K cream or gel with a strength of 2 to 5 percent, as recommended by DermaDoctor.com. Apply the vitamin K twice daily on the affected area. Use on its own or with your other skin-care products.
Tips and Warnings
- Vitamins must be taken regularly for the long term to see and maintain the benefits in preventing spider veins. Speak to your doctor regarding the best type of vitamins to take.
- Vitamins can interact with other medications or cause side effects. Do not begin taking supplements without consulting your doctor. Pregnant and nursing women should not take any supplements unless advised by their doctor. Vitamin C supplements can cause diarrhea in some individuals and should not be taken. Vitamin E causes blood thinning and should not be taken by individuals with blood disorders or who are taking other blood-thinning medications.
Things You'll Need
- Vitamin C supplements
- Vitamin E supplements
- Vitamin B complex supplements
- Vitamin K topical cream or gel
