1. Good Candidates for Laser Treatments for Spider Veins
Laser treatments for spider veins are not ideal for everyone. The best candidates are physically and psychologically healthy. Of course, they'll have spider veins, but they will be informed and not have unrealistic expectations. Be sure to ask questions at a consultation with a reputable dermatologist. People with fair skin do better because the laser light can cause discoloration on darker complexions. People who have scars or those who take Accutane are not ideal candidates.
2. Spider Veins are Predominant in Women
About 75 percent of adult women have spider veins, those squiggly blue, purple or red lines that look like a spider. They lie just under the skin. Women are more prone to them due to pregnancy and hormonal changes every month when they're not pregnant. Other causes include injuries, a family history or pressure from sitting and standing too long. Men can get them, too. While they can show up anywhere at any time, they mostly arrive after age 30 and appear on the legs. Too much sun may be the cause of facial spider veins that appear as red or pink clusters.
3. The Laser Light Show
Your doctor will perform the laser treatment in his office. After cleansing your face or legs, your treatment will begin. Expect emissions of laser light that are intense, but quick. You may need to return for more sessions within days so that your doctor can try different calibrations of light on small areas. Once your doctor is satisfied he has the best setting, you will receive a full treatment. Each session can last from minutes to an hour, and you may need more than one session. There's no real resulting pain, only a slight stinging sensation.
4. Bruising and Swelling for Recovery
Everyone heals differently, but most people can expect some swelling and redness for a few days from laser treatment. Ice packs help soothe the discomfort. The veins will change to a purplish color for five to 10 days. It's possible for the discoloration of the veins to last for a few weeks in some people before fading to pink and then to the natural color.
5. Weighing Risks and Results
The laser can burn you. Be sure to follow all of your doctor's instructions before and after surgery. The treatment may cause the skin to become lighter or darker. This can be permanent in some cases. Skin that has turned darker generally responds to a bleaching cream. However, skin that becomes lighter is more difficult to correct. The results may not erase all of the veins, but most women are reportedly satisfied. Even if some spider veins remain, they will not be as pronounced. The color of the skin will be more uniform. Nothing can stop the affects of time, so new spider veins may appear.
