The Laser Suite at Cosmetic Doctor is the place to go for effective treatment of spider veins.

Spider veins are troublesome little blood vessels just under the surface of the skin, causing red marks that are impossible to disguise with concealer.

They respond well to laser treatment as laser light targets, heats and destroys the haemoglobin in the vessels, causing them to fade. Spider veins can occur at any age, but most women over 30 have a few, and they increase with age.

Spider Veins Consultation and Method of Removal

Dr. Fay and her team will first identify the type of spider veins you have, as different types of spider veins respond better to different lasers. You skin type will also be a key factor. Different wavelengths of light may be used to treat different areas of skin.

For deeper vessels found in the legs, the Nd:YAG laser, with a wavelength of 1064 nm, is most commonly used. The spider veins that appear on the face and chest tend to be closer to the skin surface and redder in colour. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is sometimes recommended for small spider veins on the face.

Lasers can destroy spider veins that measure less than three millimetres in diameter (1/10th of an inch). If your veins are larger, opt for a different removal method.

If you have larger leg veins, ask about Sclerotherapy; lasers can also be used after sclerotherapy for matting (very fine networks of veins too small to inject) or for isolated leftover areas.

What Can I Expect?

Laser treatment will destroy spider veins permanently; you will probably need a few sessions depending on the severity of the veins. Treatment will reduce spider veins by 30-80% with each treatment, depending on their location and colour. Facial veins tend to clear up faster than leg veins, but Dr. Fay will determine the most effective course of treatment for you.

• Don’t tan, either real or fake, for two weeks prior to treatment.
• Wear loose comfortable clothing on the day of treatment, and if you’re having legs veins lasered don’t wear jeans as your skin may feel hot and a little sore.
• You may be instructed to shave the treatment site.
• You’ll be given goggles to wear to protect your eyes from the intense light of the laser; which is administered using a hand-held device.
• The treated area may be red and itchy for a few days; the veins will ultimately deflate and disappear.
• The time taken for the procedure will depend on the location and severity of the veins being targeted; you’ll be told what to expect after your consultation and evaluation of the vein site.
• You’ll always see the comparison to a rubber band being snapped repeatedly against your skin as that’s what it really feels like! If you have a low pain threshold or are concerned about discomfort, you will be advised on what pain medication options are right for you prior to treatment.