Thread & Spider Vein Treatment 

What are thread veins?

Thread veins, also known as spider veins or telangiectasia, are small, thin blood vessels that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. They are not ‘broken capillaries’ but permanently dilated capillaries. The thin, singular cell wall structure of the fine facial capillaries dilate and constrict constantly in order to control the body temperature and their elasticity weakens and they can become permanently dilated. Their visibility is often exacerbated by the breakdown of the skin’s supporting network of collagen and elastin and ageing, thinning skin.They often look like fine red, blue, or purple lines and can form in a web-like or branching pattern.

Commonly found on the face, legs, and ankles, thread veins are usually harmless but can be a cosmetic concern for many people. They may develop due to a variety of factors including aging, genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, or prolonged standing.

 

How does laser thread vein removal work?

The laser delivers light energy into your skin which is absorbed by the blood within the targeted vein. Once this energy is absorbed by the blood the vein will heat up, causing the vein walls to collapse and disappear. 

 

What are the benefits of laser removal of thread veins?

Laser removal of thread veins offers several benefits, including a reduction in the appearance of spider veins and small varicose veins, improved skin tone and texture, and enhanced overall appearance. The treatment is minimally invasive, virtually painless, and requires no downtime, allowing patients to resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Additionally, laser vein treatment can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, legs, and other areas prone to spider veins.

 

Laser thread vein removal is considered the best option for eliminating unwanted thread veins due to its precision and non-invasive nature. The Nd:YAG laser targets the affected veins directly without causing damage to the surrounding skin. This means that it is a safe treatment to have, with minimal risk of scarring or side effects. Compared to other methods, laser treatment is highly effective in addressing thread veins on various areas of the body, with visible results within only a few sessions.

 

Does laser thread vein treatment hurt?

No! The treatment is gentle, non-invasive and painless. It may feel warm or prickly, or like a rubber band pinging, but not painful.

You'll probably. hear a snap sound as we target the veins with the laser, that's completely normal and not painful.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of sessions required can vary depending on the size, number, and location of the veins being treated, as well as individual factors such as skin type and response to treatment.

For a very small area 1 treatment may be enough, for larger areas or for certain skin types 4 may be needed. However, the average is 2-3 treatments spaced several weeks apart. 

During the initial consulltation we will discuss your goals and assess the veins so that we can tailor a treatment plan, including number of sessions required, to your needs.

Will I see immediate results?

The time it takes to see results can vary depending on factors like the size and severity of the spider veins, the number of treatments received, and individual skin type and overall health. 

While some individuals may see immediate results from laser spider vein treatment, particularly for smaller veins, the full effects and noticeable improvement typically take 2-6 weeks. 

Larger or more severe veins may take longer, potentially up to 3-4 months to fully fade. Multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart are often needed for optimal results. 

Can anyone have laser thread vein treatment?

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatements unsafe, these are;

  • Lupus
  • Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
  • Keloid scarring
  • Bleeding/clotting disorders
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
  • Uncontolled diabetes 
  • Skin cancer 
  • Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
  • Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
  • Gold therapy or methotrexate
  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Liver disease, such as hepatitis
  • History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

  • Preghnancy & breastfeeding
  • Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
  • Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
  • Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
  • Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
  • Use of NSAID's in the last week
  • Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
  • Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
  • Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
  • Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
  • Some types of antibiotics

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before a treatment?

  • No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

  • Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

  • Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

  • Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 

  • Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup or lotions before arriving

     

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do after a treatment?

Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

  • Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
  • Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
  • Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
  • Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
  • Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
  • Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
  • • Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
  • Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling
  • Make sure to stay hydrated to support skin healing