What Causes Spider Veins to Form?

Doctor examining spider veins on back of patient's legsSpider veins often seem to show up out of nowhere. One day your skin looks clear, and then suddenly you notice small red, blue, or purple lines forming around your ankles, thighs, or even across your nose. These tiny veins might not cause pain, but they can still be bothersome, especially when they’re in visible areas. 

At Smooth Solutions Medical Aesthetics in Williamsville, New York, Dr. Jack Bertolino can treat spider veins with advanced laser treatment. Still, it’s important to understand why they form in the first place so you can feel more informed about your options.

Why Spider Veins Appear on the Skin

Spider veins form when small blood vessels near the surface of the skin become weakened or damaged. This causes blood to pool, which leads to those visible branching patterns. While the veins themselves are usually harmless, the underlying causes can vary from person to person. Here are some of the most common reasons they form:

Genetics and Family History

For many people, spider veins are simply part of their DNA. If your parents or grandparents had them, there’s a good chance you might develop them too, even if you live a healthy lifestyle.

Hormonal Changes and Pregnancy

Hormones play a major role in vein health. That’s why spider veins often appear during pregnancy or with age-related hormone shifts. Pregnancy also adds pressure to the lower body, which can make spider veins more noticeable, especially on the legs.

Long Hours on Your Feet (or Sitting)

Jobs that require standing or sitting for long periods can lead to poor circulation. Over time, this added pressure on your lower limbs increases the risk of spider veins forming around your calves or ankles.

Sun Exposure and Skin Damage

Too much sun can damage the delicate blood vessels in your face, especially around the nose and cheeks. People with lighter skin tones or those prone to flushing may be more at risk.

Aging and Lifestyle Factors

As skin and veins naturally weaken with age, spider veins become more common. Other factors like weight changes, injury, or frequent hot baths may also contribute.

How Laser Treatment Can Help

Even with good habits, spider veins can still appear. The good news is that laser vein treatment offers a non-invasive way to target these veins. Dr. Bertolino uses medical-grade laser technology to fade spider veins on the legs, face, and other visible areas. 

Patients in Williamsville and Buffalo trust Smooth Solutions for personalized care in a spa-like setting. To schedule your consultation, call 716-633-6100.

 

Contact Us

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Office Hours

Mon: 10am - 4pm
Tue & Wed: 10am - 6pm
Thu: 11:15am - 6pm
Fri: 10am - 4pm
Sat: By Appointment Only

Accessibility Toolbar

logo

Welcomes You!

Please confirm that you're 18 years or older to access this site content.