Conditions
Spider Veins
Reduce the Appearance of Spider Veins
If you are struggling with spider veins on your legs and are feeling self-conscious, seeking treatment could be the right step forward. At Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., our team offers personalized treatment plans that address both cosmetic concerns and any associated discomfort. Sclerotherapy remains the most effective treatment for spider veins, and our expertise helps patients receive a comprehensive approach.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin. They may look like thin red, blue, or purple lines arranged in a web-like or branching pattern. Spider veins most often occur on the legs and face, and while they are usually harmless, they can cause aching, burning, or swelling in some patients. These vessels differ from varicose veins, which are larger, bulging, and twisted, and from normal visible veins that may appear in healthy individuals.
Spider veins can develop due to genetics, hormonal changes, or increased venous pressure and may progress if untreated. Because they vary in size and type—ranging from tiny telangiectasias to slightly larger venulectasias and reticular veins—professional evaluation is important to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How Are Spider Veins Treated?
The gold standard for spider vein treatment is sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive procedure in which a sclerosing solution is injected into the affected veins. This causes the vein walls to collapse and gradually be absorbed by the body, leading to visible fading over time. Sessions are quick, require no anesthesia, and are performed with a fine needle for precision and comfort. Depending on the number and size of spider veins, several treatments may be recommended for optimal results. Other approaches, including laser therapy, can also be considered in select cases, particularly for facial spider veins. In addition to procedural treatments, lifestyle strategies such as regular exercise, leg elevation, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting may help reduce symptoms and prevent the development of new visible veins.
Why Choose Cosmedica for Spider Vein Treatment?
For patients searching for spider vein treatment in Washington, D.C., Cosmedica Dermatology provides physician-led care that blends medical expertise with advanced techniques. Dr. Sara Hogan, a board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologist, brings extensive experience with vascular laser and sclerotherapy treatments, ensuring safe and effective results tailored to each individual. Each patient undergoes a careful evaluation to distinguish spider veins from other vascular conditions and to determine the most appropriate therapy. This evidence-based approach not only improves the appearance of spider veins but also relieves associated symptoms, offering clearer, more comfortable skin with outcomes that are natural and lasting. Schedule a consultation at Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., to address unwanted spider veins with dermatologist-led care.
“Dr. Hogan is everything you’d want in a dermatologist: knowledgeable, attentive, and compassionate.”
M.M., Google Review