Spider veins, also called broken capillaries, are branching networks of small, visible veins,  commonly occurring on the face or legs, though they can appear anywhere on the body. For most people, the occurrence of broken capillaries on the face presents an aesthetic problem, and while they are not usually harmful otherwise, they may be undesirable.  

If these veins plague you and you wish to be rid of them, we have good news for you! Several highly effective methods can be used for spider vein ‘removal,’ though what really happens in these treatments is that the veins are destroyed, allowing the body to reabsorb them and the blood to be rerouted through healthier veins. 

How to get rid of spider veins

The most common treatment for broken capillaries on the face and the rest of the body is sclerotherapy, a therapy in which a sclerosing agent is injected into the vein and causes its collapse and subsequent disappearance. This is a rapid, effective procedure for many, but there are some cases in which it won’t work. If you have a needle phobia, are allergic to sclerosing agents, or the veins are not very severe, IPL Laser Treatment may also be a great option. 

IPL Laser Treatment for spider veins

The beautiful thing about using IPL for facial spider veins or less severe spider veins is that you’ll get the additional benefits of IPL on the skin treated. Aside from genetic factors and lifestyle, one of the factors behind the development of spider veins is sun damage. So if you are experiencing spider veins, you may also be experiencing other sun damage symptoms. Photofacial (IPL) is an excellent option for treating these symptoms in tandem with fading the broken capillaries. 

How to prevent spider veins

The best way to stave off spider veins is the classic advice you already know: 

  • Wear your sunscreen
  • Exercise regularly
  • Consider retinoids in your skincare routine
  • Avoid smoking
  • Try your best to avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long periods

Although these may not help to get rid of spider veins, they may help to prevent them in the future.