How Can I Get Rid of Spider Veins?

Spider veins are small, visible veins that appear red, purple, or blue, commonly found on the legs and face. These twisted veins develop when blood flow is disrupted, leading to vein dilation and discoloration.

While spider veins are usually harmless, they can cause discomfort and self-consciousness. Fortunately, advanced spider vein treatments like Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy can help reduce or eliminate them effectively.

In this guide, we will cover:

• What causes spider veins
• How to get rid of spider veins with IPL treatment
• Who is a good candidate for treatment

What Causes Spider Veins? Common Risk Factors

Spider veins develop due to weakened vein valves, leading to poor circulation and increased pressure in small blood vessels. Key risk factors include:

• Prolonged standing or sitting – Restricts blood flow, increasing vein pressure.
• Obesity – Extra weight puts pressure on veins, causing them to enlarge.
• Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menopause, or birth control use can contribute to vein dilation.
• Genetics and family history – If your family members have spider veins, you may be more prone.
• Aging and lifestyle factors – Reduced collagen production and lack of movement can worsen spider veins.

Are spider veins the same as varicose veins?

No—varicose veins are larger, raised, and sometimes painful, while spider veins are smaller and flat but still visible under the skin.

How to Treat Spider Veins: Best Medical Procedures

One of the most effective spider vein treatments is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. This non-invasive procedure helps fade and eliminate spider veins over time.

How IPL Works:

1. High-intensity light pulses target the pigmented veins.
2. Heat absorption damages the vein walls, causing them to collapse.
3. The body naturally absorbs and clears away the damaged veins within a few weeks.

Alternative Treatment Options:

Sclerotherapy – Involves injecting a solution to close the vein.

Laser Therapy – Uses heat to break down blood vessels.

Lifestyle Changes – Exercise, compression stockings, and weight management can help prevent new spider veins.

At Slimming Solutions Med Spa, we use Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to treat spider veins successfully. IPL works by using high-intensity pulses of light. The color of the spider veins causes them to absorb the light energy as heat, damaging the vein walls. The damaged vein will collapse, and the body’s natural process will clear it away within a few weeks.cv

Does IPL Work for Spider Veins? What to Expect

Yes ,IPL treatment for spider veins is quick, effective, and non-invasive.

What to Expect During IPL Treatment:

No anesthesia or numbing required – Mild discomfort only.

Feels like a rubber band snap – Most patients tolerate it well.

Treatment lasts 15–45 minutes – Depending on the area treated.

Multiple sessions may be needed – Usually spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

How long until I see results?

Results are gradual, with veins fading over several sessions as the body absorbs them.

Will I Have Any Downtime with Spider Vein Treatment?

You can resume normal activities after treatment. You may have redness and sensitivity in the treated area for a day or two. Some people see some mild blistering which also goes away quickly.

Am I a Candidate for Spider Vein Treatment?

If you have spider veins that bother you and want to have them treated, you are probably a good candidate. This non-invasive treatment works safely for almost anyone. You should let your provider know if you have any skin conditions that might affect your treatment. 

What Results Can I Expect from Treatment?

You may not notice results immediately, but your spider veins will begin to fade after several sessions. This means they have stopped working, and the body will clean them up, removing the discoloration.

Take the Next Step

Want to learn more about spider vein treatment? Schedule a consultation with Slimming Solutions Med Spa, located in Lee’s Summit, MO.

Slimming Solutions Med Spa is a full-service medical spa equipped with a Master Injector, RN/esthetician who is extremely well-versed in HRT and trained in natural hormone therapies.

Call us at (816) 524-3438 or schedule an appointment online.