Spider veins are visible red or blue blood vessels that spread like a web across the skin, commonly on the face and legs. They are not usually harmful but they can be painful and unsightly.
It is not entirely known what causes spider and varicose veins, although likely factors are heredity, pregnancy and hormones. Women are more likely than men to develop problems — more than 20 percent of women suffer from mild to severe varicose veins.
The gold standard treatment for spider and varicose veins is sclerotherapy. A special solution is injected into the blood vessel, which then collapses it. It is then reabsorbed by the body. Using support stockings can be an important way to prevent recurrence.