Spider Veins: What They Are, Why They Form, and How They’re Treated
Medically verified
Last updated on 1/29/2026
By Dr. Michael Nguyen
Vein Doctor at Vein Treatment Clinic
Harvard Medical School
Board Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine
Spider veins are small, visible veins that often appear on the legs and sometimes the face. Many patients notice them because of appearance, while others experience itching, burning, or aching in the areas where they appear.
Because spider veins are common, they are often dismissed as purely cosmetic. In some cases, however, they can be associated with increased pressure in the venous system or coexist with deeper vein problems.
This page provides a clear overview of spider veins, answers the most common patient questions, and explains when evaluation and treatment may be helpful.
If you’re unsure whether your visible veins are spider veins only or part of a larger vein issue, a vein evaluation can help clarify the cause.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are small, thin veins that appear close to the surface of the skin and often form red, blue, or purple web-like patterns.
They develop when tiny surface veins dilate and become visible through the skin.
Spider Vein before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
Spider Vein before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
What causes spider veins?
Spider veins can develop due to genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, prolonged standing, sun exposure, or increased pressure in the leg veins.
Some people develop spider veins without symptoms, while others notice recurrence over time.
What symptoms are associated with spider veins?
Many spider veins are painless, but some patients experience itching, burning, aching, or tenderness in the affected areas.
Symptoms may worsen after long periods of standing or at the end of the day.
Symptom Checker
Are spider veins just cosmetic?
Spider veins are usually considered cosmetic, but they can sometimes signal increased venous pressure or coexist with deeper vein disease.
Determining whether spider veins are isolated or related to underlying reflux helps guide treatment decisions.
How are spider veins diagnosed?
Spider veins are often diagnosed by visual examination, but ultrasound may be recommended if symptoms, recurrence, or larger veins are present.
Ultrasound helps determine whether deeper veins are contributing to surface vein formation.
What are the treatment options for spider veins?
Most spider veins are treated with minimally invasive, non-surgical procedures designed to close the vein so it fades over time.
Treatment selection depends on vein size, pattern, skin tone, and whether underlying reflux is present.
Table of contents
1. What are spider veins?
2. What causes spider veins?
3. What symptoms are associated with spider veins?
4. Are spider veins just cosmetic?
5. How are spider veins diagnosed?
6. What are the treatment options for spider veins?
7. What is sclerotherapy?
8. Are spider veins covered by insurance?
9. Do spider veins come back?
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Results that speak for themselves
You can expect results like these with our specialized treatments for spider & varicose veins performed by the best experts in the country.
Before
After
A 37-year-old patient visited our Vein Treatment Clinic, seeking relief from unsightly and painful varicose and spider veins. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, significantly improving the veins’ appearance and completely eliminating discomfort. The patient is now enjoying a more active and pain-free lifestyle.
Before
After
A 69 year-old patient visited our California Vein Clinic, embarrassed by spider veins that had impacted their self-esteem. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, leaving their legs smooth and healthy. The patient now feels more confident, thanks to this transformative treatment.
Before
After
This 84 year-old patient at our New Jersey Vein Treatment Clinic came in with spider veins that had affected their daily routine. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments to relieve discomfort and restore both their leg health and confidence. The patient now enjoys a more active and fulfilling lifestyle, free from pain.
Before
After
At our Long Island Vein Clinic, we treated this 75 year-old patient with spider veins using radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. These minimally invasive treatments improved both the patient’s appearance and overall well-being, offering transformative results.
Before
After
This 75 year-old patient visited our Long Island Vein Treatment Clinic with painful spider veins. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy, minimally invasive treatments, to eliminate the veins and restore comfort and confidence. The patient experienced life-changing results
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment for spider veins and involves small injections that gently close the vein.
Over time, the treated vein is absorbed by the body and becomes less visible.
Are spider veins covered by insurance?
Spider vein treatment is usually considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance.
If underlying venous disease is present, parts of the evaluation or related treatment may be covered.
Do spider veins come back?
Treated spider veins typically do not return, but new spider veins can develop over time.
Treating underlying causes when present helps reduce recurrence.
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About the Medical Team at Vein Treatment Clinic
Vein Treatment Clinic is powered by VIP Medical Group and built around a single guiding principle: deliver the highest standard of vein care using an academic, evidence-based approach combined with the most advanced, minimally invasive technology available today.
Clinical leadership at Vein Treatment Clinic is guided by board-certified vein specialists, including Dr. Michael Nguyen, whose training and experience help shape the clinic’s rigorous standards of care.
All physicians at Vein Treatment Clinic follow a structured, highly standardized clinical model. This includes ongoing training in the latest non-surgical vein treatments, continuous review of emerging research, and strict adherence to proven safety and quality protocols.
Patients benefit from a team-based model of care where expertise is shared, best practices are consistently applied, and treatment recommendations are driven by data, experience, and long-term results.
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Start Your Journey to Pain-Free Legs
At Vein Treatment Clinic, education is considered a core part of treatment. Patients are encouraged to understand their condition, their options, and the reasoning behind each recommendation, so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
If you’d like clarity about your varicose veins and what treatment options make sense for you, a vein evaluation can help guide that decision. Submit the form below to start your journey!
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