Visible veins on the legs can become more noticeable over time, appearing as red, blue or purple vessels beneath the skin. For some people, they are small and localised, while others develop more extensive networks of visible veins across the thighs, calves or around the ankles.
At Pure Perfection, we offer sclerotherapy for suitable vascular and thread veins on the legs. Before treatment, the veins are assessed to establish whether they are appropriate for cosmetic treatment or whether further vascular assessment would be more suitable.
What Are Vascular Veins?
Vascular veins are visible blood vessels that can be seen through or close to the surface of the skin. They can vary considerably in size and appearance, from very fine thread veins to slightly larger blue or purple vessels.
They are particularly common on the legs and are usually treated because of their appearance rather than because they pose a health concern.
However, not every visible vein is simply cosmetic. Larger, raised or symptomatic veins may be varicose veins or associated with an underlying problem with the circulation, which requires a different approach.
What Causes Vascular Veins?
Visible leg veins can develop when small blood vessels become dilated or when changes within the veins make them more noticeable beneath the skin.
Genetics can play an important role, while ageing and hormonal changes may also increase the likelihood of visible veins developing. Pregnancy can place additional pressure on the veins in the legs, and occupations or lifestyles involving long periods of standing may contribute.
Because vascular veins vary in size, depth and cause, assessment is important before deciding whether cosmetic treatment is appropriate.
Treatments for Vascular Veins at Pure Perfection
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is used at Pure Perfection to treat suitable vascular and thread veins on the legs.
During treatment, a specialist solution is carefully injected into the targeted vein. This causes the vessel to close, after which the body gradually breaks it down and absorbs it. As this process takes place, the visible vein should begin to fade.
The number of treatments required will depend on the number, size and extent of the veins being treated. Some people may require more than one session to achieve the desired improvement.
Before recommending sclerotherapy, we will assess the veins carefully. If they are larger, raised, painful or associated with swelling or other symptoms, we may recommend further medical or vascular assessment rather than cosmetic treatment.
FAQs
What is the difference between vascular veins and thread veins?
Thread veins are very small visible blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. Vascular veins is a broader term that can include other visible vessels. Their size, depth and appearance help determine whether sclerotherapy is suitable.
Can sclerotherapy treat vascular veins?
Sclerotherapy can be used to treat suitable small vascular and thread veins, particularly on the legs. Your veins will be assessed beforehand to make sure treatment is appropriate.
How does sclerotherapy work?
A specialist solution is injected directly into the targeted vessel, causing it to close. The body then gradually breaks down and absorbs the treated vein, allowing its appearance to fade over time.
How many sclerotherapy treatments will I need?
This varies according to the number, size and extent of the veins. Some areas may respond well to a single treatment, while others may require a course of sessions.
When should visible veins be medically assessed?
Larger or raised veins, or veins associated with pain, swelling, skin changes, warmth or other symptoms, should be appropriately assessed before cosmetic treatment. Sclerotherapy at Pure Perfection is not intended to replace investigation or treatment for underlying vascular disease.