Laser therapy for spider veins
Laser therapy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment option for spider veins. It is most commonly used for smaller, superficial veins—especially those that are difficult to treat with injections or those that have not responded fully to sclerotherapy. Laser treatment works by targeting the blood vessels beneath the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue, allowing the vein to gradually fade from view over time.
At Elevated Aesthetics, laser therapy is often recommended for patients who want a needle-free option or who have spider veins in areas where injections may not be ideal.
What is laser therapy for spider veins?
Laser therapy is a procedure that uses focused light energy to treat spider veins by heating the vein and causing it to collapse. Once the vein is sealed shut, the body naturally breaks it down and absorbs it over time. The treated vessel gradually fades, leaving the skin looking clearer and more even-toned. Laser therapy is best suited for:
- Small spider veins (especially red or purple veins close to the surface)
- Veins on the face or delicate areas
- Spider veins that have not responded to sclerotherapy (refractory veins)
- Patients who prefer a non-injection treatment option
How does it work?
Laser energy is delivered directly to the vein through the skin. The light targets the pigment in the blood vessel, gently heating it until the vein collapses. Over the next several weeks, your body reabsorbs the sealed vein naturally. Because the treatment is precise and targets only the vein, the surrounding skin and tissue
remain unharmed.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments depends on the size, location, and number of spider veins being treated. Most patients require: 2–4 treatments per area Treatments spaced approximately 4–6 weeks apart Some veins respond very quickly, while others may need multiple sessions for best results.
What does laser treatment feel like?
Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snap or slight sting—similar to a rubber band flicking the skin. The discomfort is typically mild and very brief, and treatment is generally well tolerated without the need for numbing medication.
For sensitive areas, we can discuss comfort options during your consultation.
Side effects and what to expect after treatment
Laser therapy has minimal downtime. After treatment, it is normal to experience:
- Mild redness or swelling
- Temporary warmth or tenderness in the treated area
- A slight bruised appearance (in some cases)
- Darkening of the vein before it fades (this is part of the healing process)
- These effects typically resolve within a few days. Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
What should I avoid after laser therapy?
For best results, we recommend avoiding the following for 2–3 days after treatment:
- Hot baths, hot tubs, and saunas
- Heavy exercise or high-impact workouts
- Sunbathing or tanning beds
Long flights (if treating legs and prone to swelling) - You should also avoid direct sun exposure to the treated area and wear sunscreen daily to protect the skin and prevent pigmentation changes.
What else should I know?
Laser therapy does not treat larger varicose veins. It is designed specifically for spider veins and small surface vessels.
Results appear gradually, and improvement continues over several weeks as the body clears the treated veins.
Even though treated veins do not return, new spider veins can develop over time due to
genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, or circulation factors—so maintenance treatments may be helpful depending on your individual needs.
Laser vs. Sclerotherapy — which is best?
Both laser therapy and sclerotherapy are effective treatments, and the best option depends on the type of veins being treated.
Laser therapy is best for:
- Spider veins (especially small, superficial, red, or purple veins)
- Patients who prefer a needle-free option
- Veins that have not responded to sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is best for:
- Spider veins and small varicose veins up to 3mm in diameter
- More extensive leg vein patterns
- Long-term vein correction (gold standard)
In many cases, the best results come from combining both treatments. Your provider will recommend the most effective plan based on your vein type and treatment goals.
Ready to treat your spider veins?
If you are bothered by spider veins and want a smooth, confident look without invasive treatment, laser therapy may be an excellent option. Schedule a consultation to determine whether laser or sclerotherapy is best for your veins, and we will design a personalized plan to help you feel your best.
Call or book your appointment today.
