Thread veins (also known as spider veins or telangiectasia) are tiny red, blue, or purple veins that appear just beneath the skin.

They commonly develop on the legs, and smaller versions can appear on the face, especially around the nose and cheeks.

The gold-standard treatment for leg thread veins is Microsclerotherapy. This involves injecting a small amount of sclerosing solution into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade gradually.

Laser treatments do not work well on leg thread veins, which is why sclerotherapy is the preferred option.

Facial spider veins respond best to ThermaVein® or vascular laser.

These devices target very small superficial facial veins that are too fine for injections.

Most patients describe the injections as a slight pinprick or mild stinging sensation. The needles used are extremely fine, and discomfort is minimal.

A typical session lasts 20–40 minutes, depending on the number of veins treated.

Most patients require 1–3 sessions for best results, spaced a few weeks apart.

Your specialist will recommend a plan based on vein size, pattern, and extent.

Fading usually begins after 3–4 weeks, with full improvement visible in 6–12 weeks.

Larger or deeper veins may need additional sessions.

Treated veins do not return, but new veins can develop over time due to:

• Genetics

• Hormonal changes (especially in women 40+)

• Pregnancy

• Prolonged standing

• Skin ageing

Maintenance sessions may be helpful for long-term results.

Yes, after Microsclerotherapy most patients are advised to wear compression stockings for 1–2 weeks to support healing and improve the cosmetic outcome.

There is no downtime.

You can walk immediately and return to normal activities the same day.

Avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours.

Common temporary effects include:

• Mild redness

• Small bruises

• Itching

• Light swelling

These settle naturally. Brown pigmentation may occur in some cases but usually fades over time.

Sometimes, yes.

If thread veins are extensive or accompanied by leg swelling, aching, or varicose veins, your consultant may recommend an ultrasound scan to check for underlying reflux.

Yes — Microsclerotherapy and ThermaVein® have excellent safety profiles when performed by trained specialists.

At Genesis Clinic, all treatments are consultant-led for optimal outcomes.

Yes, but you must avoid sun exposure on treated areas and wear SPF.

Stockings may feel warm in hot weather, so many patients prefer autumn or spring.

Absolutely.

Thread veins commonly become more noticeable with age, hormonal changes, and pregnancy.

Treatment is safe, effective and offers a meaningful cosmetic boost.

Exercise does not directly cause thread veins, but activities involving high pressure (heavy lifting, straining) may make existing veins more noticeable.

Walking and normal fitness are encouraged.

Treating thread veins is mainly cosmetic, but it can:

• Improve skin appearance

• Boost confidence

• Highlight underlying veins that may need attention

If symptoms are present, your consultant will investigate further.

Treated veins fade permanently, but new veins can appear due to natural ageing.

Periodic maintenance is optional but common.