What Are Spider Veins and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
We asked two leading experts, Dr Zara Yousufzai, General Practitioner & Aesthetics Specialist at Aesthetics International Clinic, and Dr Maurizio Viel, Plastic Surgeon at Cornerstone, to decode the truth about spider veins and share the most effective ways to treat them.
What are spider veins, exactly?
'Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are small, thin veins visible just under the surface of the skin, usually red, blue, or purple in colour,' explains Dr Yousufzai. 'They tend to form in clusters and resemble fine branches or webs.'
They're often confused with varicose veins, which are thicker, bulging, and more likely to cause discomfort. 'Varicose veins result from damaged valves that allow blood to pool, leading to swelling, heaviness, and sometimes even skin ulcers or blood clots,' adds Dr Viel. In contrast, spider veins are generally painless and pose more of an aesthetic issue than a medical one.
Are they genetic or lifestyle-related?
'There's definitely a genetic predisposition,' says Dr Yousufzai. 'If your parents had spider veins, you're more likely to develop them.' However, both doctors agree that lifestyle plays a significant role. Extended sitting or standing, hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy or menopause), and even sun exposure can trigger their appearance.
'Obesity, wearing tight clothing, and a lack of exercise can all contribute,' adds Dr Viel. 'And in terms of gender, women are more prone due to hormonal fluctuations, especially those taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy.'
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