Spider veins are one of the most common cosmetic concerns for both women and men. While they’re usually harmless from a medical standpoint, they can affect how confident you feel—especially when it’s time to wear shorts, dresses, or a bathing suit. If you’ve noticed visible veins on your legs or other areas of the body, you may be wondering which treatments actually work and what will give you the longest-lasting results.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different options for treating spider veins, explain what causes them, and show you why Sclerotherapy is considered the most effective treatment available. At Raw Beauty Medical Spa, we specialize in safe, non-surgical treatments that deliver real results—and we’re here to help you make an informed choice.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, damaged blood vessels that appear near the surface of the skin. They often look like thin red, blue, or purple lines that branch out like a web. These veins develop when the valves inside them stop functioning properly, causing blood to pool and become more visible.
Common causes of spider veins include:
- Genetics (they often run in families)
- Aging (veins naturally weaken over time)
- Hormonal changes (including pregnancy or birth control use)
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Obesity or excess weight
- Sun damage
While spider veins are different from varicose veins—which are larger, bulging, and sometimes painful—the two conditions share many of the same causes.
What Are the Treatment Options?
If you’re considering spider vein removal, there are a few treatment methods you may come across. Here’s a quick overview of the most common options available:
Laser Vein Therapy
Laser treatments use focused light to heat and damage small veins, causing them to shrink and fade over time. This method works best for very tiny spider veins near the skin’s surface but is less effective for deeper or larger veins. Multiple sessions are usually needed.
Radiofrequency Ablation
This treatment uses heat energy delivered through a catheter to close off larger varicose veins. It’s effective but more invasive than other options and is typically reserved for veins that cause pain or swelling.
Compression Stockings
Compression garments can improve blood flow and relieve mild discomfort from spider or varicose veins. While they don’t erase existing veins, they can help prevent new ones from forming.
Sclerotherapy (Asclera)
Sclerotherapy is widely regarded as the most reliable and lasting treatment for spider veins. It’s minimally invasive, requires no downtime, and is especially effective for small- to medium-sized veins. Let’s take a closer look at why this option is so often recommended by medical providers.
Why Sclerotherapy Is the Most Effective Treatment
At Raw Beauty, our go-to solution for spider vein removal is a form of sclerotherapy using Asclera, an FDA-approved injectable that’s been proven to work safely and effectively.
How It Works
During treatment, a trained medical provider injects a small amount of Asclera directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body. Your blood is then rerouted to healthier veins nearby.
Long-Lasting Results
Because the treated veins are physically closed off and broken down, they won’t return. The results are permanent for those veins. However, your body may form new spider veins over time, especially if you’re prone to them—so some people choose to do occasional maintenance treatments.
Treatment Timeline
Visible improvement usually starts within a few weeks but can take one to two months for full fading. Depending on how many veins you’re treating and how large they are, you might need multiple sessions spaced two to three weeks apart.
Who It’s Best For
Sclerotherapy is ideal for:
- Spider veins under 1 mm in diameter
- Small varicose veins between 1–3 mm
- Healthy individuals who are not pregnant or nursing
Your Raw Beauty provider will evaluate your vein type and health history to determine if Asclera is right for you.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Sclerotherapy sessions are quick and convenient. Most appointments take just 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how many veins are being treated.
During the Procedure
You’ll lie comfortably while your provider carefully injects the solution into each vein using a fine needle. You may feel a slight pinch or mild burning, but the process is generally well tolerated.
Aftercare Instructions
There’s no need for downtime, but a few simple steps will help ensure great results:
Walk daily: You’ll be asked to walk for 15–20 minutes a day, starting right after your appointment, to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Wear compression stockings: Plan to wear them continuously for 2–3 days (spider veins) or 5–7 days (varicose veins) to support healing.
Avoid hot environments:Â Skip hot baths, saunas, and hot tubs for a few days post-treatment.
Stay out of the sun:Â UV exposure can increase skin discoloration or slow healing.
Side Effects
Most people experience mild bruising or redness at the injection site. Other temporary effects might include small raised areas or darkened patches of skin, which usually fade within a couple of weeks.
How to Prevent Future Spider Veins
While sclerotherapy can treat existing spider veins, prevention plays a key role in long-term success. Here are a few tips to help reduce your risk of developing new ones:
- Move regularly throughout the day to improve circulation.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long stretches—take walking breaks when you can.
- Elevate your legs at the end of the day.
- Wear compression socks if you’re prone to vein issues.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your veins.
- Use sunscreen on your legs to protect against UV-related damage.
Even small lifestyle changes can go a long way in protecting your vein health.
Who Should Not Get Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is not recommended if you:
- Are currently pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive
- Have a history of blood clots or clotting disorders
- Have thromboembolic disease
- Are allergic to polidocanol (the ingredient in Asclera)
If you’re unsure, a consultation at Raw Beauty will help determine your eligibility. Your safety and long-term health are always our top priority.
Why Choose Raw Beauty Medical Spa?
At Raw Beauty Medical Spa in Woodland Hills, we take a thoughtful and personalized approach to every spider vein treatment. Our licensed practitioners:
- Take time to understand your goals and concerns
- Use high-quality products like Asclera for optimal outcomes
- Provide clear aftercare guidance and follow-up support
- Create treatment plans that fit your lifestyle and timeline
We also offer free consultations, flexible scheduling, and financing options through CareCredit or Cherry. With our honest, expert guidance, you’ll know exactly what to expect—no surprises, no pressure.
Final Thoughts
Spider veins may be common, but they don’t have to be permanent. With sclerotherapy, you can treat the veins that bother you and feel more confident in your skin again—without surgery or downtime.
At Raw Beauty Medical Spa, we’re here to make the process simple, safe, and effective. If you’re ready to explore spider vein removal, we’d love to meet you and create a plan that fits your needs.
[CTA: Book A Consultation]
Spider Vein Treatment Questions
How long do the results of sclerotherapy last?
The treated veins are permanently destroyed and won’t come back. However, new veins may develop over time, especially if you have risk factors.
Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most patients describe the treatment as mildly uncomfortable but very manageable. You may feel a quick pinch or a warm sensation during the injections.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on how many veins you’re treating and their size. Some people need just one session, while others may need three to six spaced a few weeks apart.
Can I go back to work after my appointment?
Yes. There’s no downtime after sclerotherapy, so you can return to work or your normal routine the same day.
What’s the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?
Spider veins are smaller, flat, and closer to the surface. Varicose veins are larger, raised, and can cause discomfort or swelling.
Will insurance cover spider vein treatment?
Most insurance plans consider spider vein treatment cosmetic, so it’s not usually covered. However, varicose veins that cause pain or health risks may be eligible for coverage.
