What are they?

Varicose veins are twisted, bulging veins, typically found in the legs and feet, and are the result of excess pressure on the veins from prolonged periods of standing. They are typically dark blue to purplish in color, and may itch or throb. Mayoclinic.com estimates that in the US, 25% of women and 15% of men suffer from varicose veins, and the condition is very common in pregnant woman and older adults.

Spider veins affect smaller, superficial veins that are located closer to the surface of the skin, and are typically not indicative of any deeper medical condition. Spider veins tend to form small webs or clusters of red, thread-like veins on the inner and outer thighs, as well as the ankles, and they can also appear on the face, especially on the cheeks or around the nose.

Occasionally, varicose veins can signal a more serious medical condition such as blood clots, ulcers or phlebitis therefore, the sudden appearance of varicose veins should be examined by a doctor immediately.

How do you get them?

Like all veins, veins in the legs are responsible for carrying blood back to the heart to be re-circulated. Healthy veins have a one-way valve which normally prevents blood from flowing backwards (or away from the heart) within the vein, however; with age, veins can stretch and lose functionality, causing the valve to fail and blood to pool in the vein. This backup then causes the veins to become enlarged and twisted, bluish in color, to protrude from under the skin and they can be tender to the touch, itch or throb.

The exact reasons that the valves fail isn't known, but genetics, hormones, age and stress are all major contributors. Also, anyone born with weak vein walls will be more prone to varicose or spider veins, as well as those who are on their feet for extended periods of time (such as waitresses or retail workers).

Varicose and spider veins can also develop if the blood flow is somehow obstructed, causing pressure on the vein walls. Thrombosis, a medical condition where the blood congeals inside the vein, or external compression can cause obstructions, as well as reduced circulation (such as with age or certain medical conditions), obesity, sitting for long periods of time or restrictive clothing.

Treatment:

For many people, removal of varicose veins is a cosmetic decision; the appearance of the veins is unappealing when wearing shorts or skirts. For others, medical conditions may necessitate their removal but in either case, follow these guidelines to delay the appearance of any new varicose or spider veins. Refrain from standing or elevating the feet for prolonged periods of time, wearing support stockings and adopt a daily exercise routine to maintain healthy circulation.

Surgical methods are also an option. In the 1950s, a surgical procedure called "stripping" was introduced, which involves surgeons making several incisions near to the compromised vein, and then passing a device all the way through the vein to "strip" it out of the body. In some cases, deeper veins will have to be litigated, or sutured. Other treatments include laser and light therapy, and minimally invasive procedures, such as endovenous thermal ablation, micropuncture or micro-incision phlebectomy and transilluminated power phlebectomy. Endovenous thermal ablation uses heat to seal off malfunctioning veins, thereby diverting blood flow to nearby healthy veins; micropuncture or micro-incision phlebectomy involves a doctor "hooking" and then removing diseased veins through very small incisions; and transilluminated power phlebectomy utilizes a fiberoptic light to highlight the vein segments which are then suctioned out through an incision.

Sclerotherapy is another method for treating varicose veins that is also useful on spider veins. The vein is injected with a hypertonic saline or sodium tetradecyl sulfate solution which causes the vein to collapse and fade from view. For best results, multiple treatments are typically recommended and side-effects may include bruising or tenderness at the injection site. With any vein treatment, consult a doctor or vascular specialist before undergoing any procedure.

Product Picks:

For at home treatment, hiding the appearance of existing varicose or spider veins with a full-coverage concealer designed for use on the body is often the best option. Dermablend Leg and Body Cover Buff is available in 15 shades; offers SPF 15 sun protection and last for 16 hours, making it perfect for all skin types and even outdoor activities. Additionally, the product is lightweight and can be used with a Dermablend Loose Setting Powder - Original to minimize any color transfer onto clothing or fabric. Another good option is CoverBlend Corrective Leg and Body Makeup-SPF 18. Water-resistant and packed with antioxidants, this formula also offers SPF 18.

Special considerations

Be certain to discuss all possible side effects before undergoing any vein treatments, especially sclerotherapy, as the solutions used may cause an allergic reaction or skin discoloration. Skin discoloration can also occur with laser and light therapy, as well as superficial scarring. Additionally, be prepared for a long-term commitment as many procedures require more than one treatment.

Learn everything you need to know about anti-aging skincare in our Anti-Aging Handbook.