Spider vein removal

Many people find spider veins aesthetically displeasing – especially in visible areas like the legs. Although these small, dilated blood vessels are usually harmless, they can significantly affect one's well-being. With modern methods such as sclerotherapy (vein sclerotherapy), spider veins can now be treated gently and effectively – entirely without surgery or downtime.

This article provides all the essential information about spider vein removal – from causes and symptoms to proven treatments. This article offers a concise overview of the causes, treatment, procedure, aftercare, and costs of spider vein removal at DERM ART.

At DERM ART, your skin and well-being are our top priority – with state-of-the-art dermatology, personalized care, and the highest quality standards. We offer customized solutions for skin conditions, aesthetic concerns, and long-term skin health.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Was sind Besenreiser?
Ursachen von Besenreisern: Warum entstehen die feinen Äderchen?
Symptome von Besenreisern: Wann sie harmlos sind – und wann nicht
Besenreiser behandeln: Effektiv mit Venenverödung (Sklerotherapie)
So verläuft die Besenreiser-Behandlung: Beratung, Durchführung & Nachsorge
Kosten und Finanzierung für die Venenverödung
Video
FAQ – Häufig gestellte Fragen

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Symptoms of spider veins: When they are harmless – and when they are not

In most cases, spider veins are completely harmless and represent more of a cosmetic than a medical problem. Many sufferers simply notice the typical, fine, reddish-blue veins on their skin – often on their legs. Spider veins on the legs are usually asymptomatic and cause no discomfort whatsoever.

However, there are exceptions: If a feeling of heaviness in the legs or a tendency towards swelling also occurs, this can indicate that not only superficial skin veins but also deeper veins are affected. In such cases, chronic venous insufficiency is a likely diagnosis and should be investigated further.

In addition to the deep veins, the main veins, i.e., larger superficial veins, can also be affected. Important: Before considering cosmetic treatments such as laser or sclerotherapy for spider veins, it is essential to rule out any underlying venous disease. Otherwise, this would need to be treated first.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a particularly serious condition. It can be dangerous and is usually accompanied by clear symptoms such as sudden pain, a feeling of tightness, significant swelling, or discoloration of the affected leg. Spider veins themselves are not dangerous, but they can—especially when combined with other symptoms—indicate an underlying venous return disorder.

Treating spider veins: Effectively with sclerotherapy (vein sclerotherapy)

A proven method for removing spider veins is sclerotherapy, also known as vein sclerotherapy. This minimally invasive treatment is particularly suitable for fine, superficial veins – precisely those that typically appear as spider veins on the legs.

In sclerotherapy, a special sclerosing agent is injected directly into the affected vein using a very fine needle. This solution causes the vein walls to stick together from the inside. As a result, blood can no longer flow through the affected vein, and the body breaks it down over time. The spider veins thus gradually fade – often visibly within just a few weeks.

This method is particularly effective and considered one of the most effective treatments for spider vein removal. It is performed on an outpatient basis, is virtually painless, and requires no significant downtime. Depending on the severity of the condition, several sessions may be necessary.

Many people affected by spider veins also inquire about the possibility of laser treatment. However, laser therapy has not proven sufficiently effective for spider veins on the legs. The deeper and often somewhat thicker vessels do not respond well to the laser. On the other hand, this method is excellent for removing red veins on the face, such as those that appear in cases of rosacea or on the décolleté. Here, the laser can be used precisely to close superficial vessels and improve the appearance of the skin.

What is the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?
Spider veins are superficial, fine veins without symptoms; varicose veins are larger veins that are often painful.

Which cream helps against spider veins according to Stiftung Warentest?
According to Stiftung Warentest, there is currently no cream with proven effectiveness against spider veins.

What can be done about spider veins during pregnancy?
Preventive measures include exercise and compression; treatment is usually performed only after childbirth.

Can spider veins disappear on their own?
No, spider veins generally do not disappear on their own and remain permanently visible.

Which home remedies can help with spider veins?
Home remedies like apple cider vinegar or horse chestnut may have a soothing effect, but they do not remove spider veins.

How can spider veins be effectively prevented?
Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, weight management, and compression can help prevent spider veins.

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are fine, reddish to bluish shimmering veins that run directly under the skin and are usually visible on the legs – especially on the lower legs, calves, and around the ankles. These small, dilated veins are considered a harmless form of venous disease, even though they are often perceived as cosmetically bothersome.

Despite their noticeable appearance, spider veins do not necessarily indicate weakness in the deeper venous system. Many individuals experience changes only in the superficial veins, without any involvement of the main (trunk) veins or deep veins.

However, if venous insufficiency is present – meaning the vein function is impaired and blood is no longer transported efficiently back to the heart – this can lead to varicose veins over time. In such cases, it is advisable to have both the visible spider veins and any possible accompanying conditions examined.

Our venous system consists of two main components: the deep veins, which transport most of the blood, and the superficial veins. The latter are further divided into larger trunk veins, which are often affected in varicose vein disease, and smaller skin veins, from which spider veins commonly develop. These fine vessels are the ones that are visually noticeable in many affected individuals.

Causes of Spider Veins: Why Do These Fine Veins Develop?

The development of spider veins is often the result of several contributing factors—both physical and lifestyle-related.

1. Hormonal influences

A major trigger is the hormone estrogen, which plays an important role especially in women. It causes a loosening of the connective tissue, which in turn promotes the dilation of superficial veins. This is why spider veins occur particularly often in young women or during pregnancy. The weaker connective tissue combined with hormonal fluctuations creates the ideal conditions for the formation of these small reddish-blue veins.

2. Venous weakness

Existing venous weakness (chronic venous insufficiency) can also contribute to the development of spider veins. When the return flow of blood in the deeper veins is impaired, pressure in the superficial veins increases—leading to their dilation over time. In such cases, spider veins are often the first visible warning signs, appearing even before pronounced varicose veins develop.

3. Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle also plays a decisive role. Prolonged sitting or standing, as is common in many occupations, hinders the natural return of blood from the legs. This increases venous pressure, which in the long term promotes the formation of spider veins on the legs. Other risk factors include lack of physical activity and excess weight, as both place additional strain on the venous system.

4. Genetic predisposition

Genetics should not be underestimated. Anyone with a family history of spider veins has a significantly higher risk of developing them themselves. This is referred to as hereditary predisposition: if parents or grandparents are affected, the likelihood is high that subsequent generations will also be affected.

Spider vein treatment: Consultation, procedure & aftercare

4. Genetic predisposition. Personal consultation on spider vein treatment.

Before starting a spider vein treatment, an individual consultation is important to determine the most suitable method and the required scope of therapy. During a personal meeting, we clarify whether vein sclerotherapy is the right solution for you and what results can realistically be expected. Although spider veins are usually harmless, we take your concerns seriously and discuss all relevant factors—such as pre-existing conditions, the location of the spider veins, or possible contraindications. A thorough medical history helps us tailor the treatment precisely to your needs and achieve an aesthetically satisfying result.

This is how sclerotherapy for spider veins works.

The actual sclerotherapy procedure takes place directly in our treatment rooms. Local anesthesia is not necessary, as the procedure is gentle and minimally uncomfortable. After disinfecting the affected skin areas, the sclerosing agent is injected directly into the spider veins using a fine needle. A brief burning sensation or slight redness may occur—this is a normal reaction and disappears quickly. The effects of the treatment develop gradually: it usually takes around 3–4 weeks for the treated veins to visibly fade. Often, a second session is needed to achieve optimal aesthetic results.

After treatment – what you should be aware of

Immediately after the procedure, compression stockings are applied to support the effectiveness of the treatment. These should be worn consistently for 2 to 3 days to ensure even pressure on the treated area. Additionally, sun exposure, sauna visits, and steam baths should be avoided for at least 6 weeks to prevent skin irritation and ensure optimal healing. These measures contribute significantly to making spider vein removal both effective and long-lasting.

Spider vein removal

Symptoms of spider veins: When they are harmless – and when they are not

Treating spider veins: Effectively with sclerotherapy (vein sclerotherapy)

What are spider veins?

Causes of Spider Veins: Why Do These Fine Veins Develop?

Spider vein treatment: Consultation, procedure & aftercare

4. Genetic predisposition. Personal consultation on spider vein treatment.

This is how sclerotherapy for spider veins works.

After treatment – what you should be aware of

Costs and Financing for Vein Sclerotherapy

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