Thread veins, also known as spider veins, are the tiny red, blue or purple lines that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. They are not considered to be a medical risk, but because they often appear in highly visible areas such as the face or legs, many people feel self-conscious about them.
As we are approaching summer, you might be looking to explore laser thread vein removal treatments. This can help you to look your best for social events, and feel more confident wearing summer clothes. Here’s a look at the advanced laser technology we use at our Brighton clinic for highly targeted and effective thread vein removal.
What causes thread veins?
Thread veins form when small blood vessels become dilated or damaged, and they appear as a fine spider web or tree branch pattern just under the surface of the skin. It can be an inherited condition, or it can be caused by sun damage, excessive alcohol consumption, extreme temperatures, or ageing.
In some cases, thread veins can appear as a result of rosacea, which is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the central area of the face. It’s more common in women over the age of 30, and the causes are unknown. However, it can be made worse by heat, alcohol, intense exercise, stress and spicy foods.
How does laser thread vein removal work?
Laser thread vein removal is a quick and non-invasive procedure that delivers a targeted pulse of light to rapidly heat up the vein. This causes it to collapse and seal, and it is naturally reabsorbed by the body, leaving no trace and causing no damage to the surrounding skin. The treatment is suitable for spider veins on the face and legs.
What to expect from your first treatment
You’ll need to book a consultation for a patch test at least seven days before your appointment to check for any adverse reactions (avoid any clinic that does not offer this, as they will not have rigorous health and safety standards).
You’ll also be advised to avoid sun exposure for four weeks before and after the treatment, and refrain from using photosensitive medication 72 hours before. You should also avoid fake tan, plucking, waxing or threading, and any intense exercise or heat exposure 24 hours before or after the treatment.
The session will take around 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the size or number of thread veins being treated. Some patients report a mild discomfort during the treatment, such as a slight stinging sensation. Your therapist will advise you further on how best to manage this.
Follow the after care instructions carefully: you might experience slight redness or swelling that will typically subside within a couple of days. The veins will gradually fade within four to six weeks, although follow up sessions may be required for the best results.