What are spider veins?
Spider veins (telangiectasias) are tiny damaged superficial veins visible close to the skin. For professional spider vein treatment in Cape Town, visit our main treatment page. These damaged blood vessels are visible as red, blue or purple lines on the skin and are commonly found on the legs or face. They are usually harmless, but many people seek treatment for cosmetic improvement.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetics:Spider veins are heavily influenced by genetics. A strong family history determines the strength of valves and vein walls.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or hormone therapy could increase the risk of developing spider veins.
- Sun Exposure: UV damage can cause broken capillaries, especially on the face.
- Pressure:Obesity, prolonged standing/sitting, and pressure from deeper “feeder” veins.
- Aging:As we age, vein walls weaken.
- Trauma:Injury or extreme temperatures causes the capillaries to burst and become damaged.
Treatment Options
- Sclerotherapy
- How It Works: This 10-30 minute procedure involves a specialised solution being directly injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time.
- Best for: Spider veins on the legs as well as small varicose veins.
- What to expect during and after treatment: During the treatment, patients may experience a mild stinging or cramping sensation as the liquid enters the vein, however, it lasts for about 1-2 minutes. Some bruising or mild swelling, redness and itchiness at the injection site is possible after treatment. Compression stockings must be worn for several days to weeks post-procedure to assist in healing and prevent blood from re-entering the vein. Avoid hot baths and direct sun exposure for a few weeks after treatment.
- Results: Minimal downtime. Results may appear in 2-6 months, and multiple sessions may be needed. Sclerotherapy yields high success rates with 50-80% of veins disappearing after each session. Results are permanent, though new veins may develop.
- Laser Vein Removal
- How It Works: Laser vein removal uses focused light energy to heat and collapse unwanted veins like spider veins, causing them to fade as the body reabsorbs them.
- Best For: Spider veins, broken capillaries especially on the face and legs.
- What to expect during and after treatment: The procedure is often described as feeling like a mild, quick, snapping sensation or a warm to hot feeling as the laser targets the vessels. While generally, no anesthetic is required, some providers may use a topical anesthetic to numb the area. The treated area may feel warm and look like a mild sunburn. Redness, sensitivity, and small, pink bumps around the veins are common and usually fade within a few days. Strict avoidance of sun exposure for at least 7 days is essential to prevent any adverse effects on the treated area. Use SPF 50+ daily. Avoid hot showers, saunas, hot tubs, and strenuous activities and exercise for 48–72 hours to allow the vessels to stay closed.
- Results: The body will slowly reabsorb the vessel. The final results are typically visible after 4–6 weeks, with some patients requiring up to 4 treatments for optimal results.
Typical Treatment costs in Cape Town:
Typical treatment costs for sclerotherapy and NDYag vein laser vary depending on the clinic, the extent of veins and the number of sessions required.
Sclerotherapy generally ranges from R1600 to R3800+ per session with multiple sessions often required for optimal results.
Consultation fee is approximately R1000+ which may be deducted from the treatment cost.
Compression stockings often required for post care costs around R995 per pair.
Some procedures, such as Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy may be covered by medical aid.
Prices for laser vein treatments are generally quoted per area and range from about R650 to R3000+
3-6 sessions minimum are typically needed for optimal results.
When selecting a clinic:
- Check credentials: Dermatologist-led clinics often deliver more precise, safer outcomes.
- Ask about technology: Nd:YAG and other medical lasers are considered effective for darker skin types.
- Consultation matters: A proper skin evaluation ensures the right treatment choice.
Tips Before Booking
- Ask about the number of sessions covered in quoted price.
- Confirm whether aftercare and follow-ups are included.
- Discuss potential risks and expected results based on your skin type.
One of the top clinics to visit is Atlantic Dermatology and Laser. This aesthetic clinic is based in Sea Point, Cape Town and offers skin and vascular cosmetic treatments, including spider and varicose vein procedures using advanced laser technology.
ClearScan™, Nd:YAG and BBL laser is used for targeting spider veins on legs and face and treatments are tailored to your skin condition, with minimal invasiveness and discomfort.