1. What are varicose veins?
Anar Mikailov, M.D., a Massachusetts-based dermatologist and co-founder of Sktensive explains: “Varicose veins are dilated purple blood vessels that can be seen and felt on the surface of the skin. He explains that they are usually located on the lower legs (they are affected by gravity) and they often protrude from the skin. Ellen Marmur, M.D., a dermatologist in Manhattan and founder of MMSkincare, further explains: “They are simply weak blood vessels that will expand like a balloon as blood circulates up the leg without proficiency.
According to the American Society of Dermatological Surgeons, more than 40% of women have varicose veins of some form, a rate slightly higher than the percentage of men. Statistically, it’s extremely common, but like cellulite, which affects 90% of women, it can still cause some degree of insecurity, as has happened with My confident mother.
If that’s the case, know that there are several ways to minimize the appearance of varicose veins. Here, three experts share treatments that can remove them and mask them temporarily. But before starting treatment, let’s look at the root cause of varicose veins.
2. What Causes Varicose Veins?
Genetics play a part, but factors like age and previous trauma can also lead to spider veins. Claudia Rios, the board-certified internist at the Vein Specialist Center, says that gender, medications, and weight fluctuations are all factors. She added: “Standing or sitting for long periods can also play a role. On top of that, ASDS also attributes varicose veins to pregnancy and sun damage.
Are varicose veins a sign of health problems?
Dr. Rios says that varicose veins are a sign of venous disease that manifests itself in stages. “The first visible sign of varicose veins can be spider veins, maybe in your ankles, without any discomfort beyond appearances,” she explains. However, with further progression, she says that patients can develop varicose veins (larger) with a greater awareness of heaviness or pain in the legs.
For many people, she says the biggest concern with varicose veins is their appearance. “But the longer you leave them on, they can show up with worse symptoms like aching or heaviness in the legs; burning, stinging, muscle cramps and swelling in the lower legs; pain that gets worse after when sitting or standing for a long time; itching around one or more veins and changes in skin color around varicose veins,” says Dr. Rios.
It is essential to be evaluated by a vascular specialist to prevent further progression of the disease. Rios says to make sure your doctor is certified in a vascular specialty such as Vascular Surgery, Cardiology, or the American Board of Vein and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM).
3. What is the best way to treat varicose veins?
Depending on the severity of your varicose veins and how much you want to spend, there are several ways to treat them.
3.1. injection
Intravenous injection with glycerin or Asclera is another option. Dr. Marmur says the injections are painless. (She’s done them and says the process is “amazingly tolerable.”) Dr. Mikailov explains that sclerotherapy — the treatment’s official name — makes static. The varicose vein is going to collapse, which sounds scary, but it just means the size of the vein. The vein will contract and thus sink back into the skin and thus, the vein will get rid of the bulge.
3.2. laser treatment
Laser treatment is another option. This non-surgical procedure works by heating the veins, deadening the vein walls, and so the body absorbs the dead tissue to reduce inflammation. Dr. Marmur explains that lasers are inserted into the vein and then sealed off. “This is a procedure done with an irritant and may require several sessions,” she says. “External lasers for vascular lesions are also used but below average compared to injections.”
Marmur says that both lasers and injections typically cost about $350 a session, and people should plan on having three to six sessions depending on the vein being treated. Mikailov says you should expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $500.
3.3. Surgery
In more severe cases, surgery is an option. Dr. Mikailov says that options like ligation and vein stripping will remove the veins through the incisions, but encourages people to consult a varicose veins management expert for advice. comprehensive assessment of their condition and the cause of their condition before proceeding with surgery. As for the price, Dr. Marmur said that if someone was eligible to buy it, insurance could cover it, and Dr. Mikailov said the price would be between $1,500 and $3,000.
3.4. Wear compression stockings
Now, although this is not a cure, wearing compression stockings can reduce discomfort and prevent varicose veins from getting worse. “[This will] help bring blood back to the heart from the legs,” explains Dr. Mikailov.
Are there any side effects from varicose veins treatments?
As with any type of clinical treatment or surgery, there are some side effects. For less invasive areas, Dr. Marmur said to expect each area to be redder, mildly swollen, and bruised for up to four weeks, adding that there may also be small scabs or blood clots. Bronze. “If there is a darkened clotting area, let your doctor know and ask if you should go in to release the trapped blood,” she notes.
As for surgical treatments, John Hopkins University adds that potential risks include blood clots, inflammation, nerve damage, bruising, and changes in skin color on the treated vein.
4. How To Cover Varicose Veins With Makeup
Instead of treatments, light makeup can be of great help if you want to hide your varicose veins. Celebrity makeup artist Kelly Dawn says to look for a pigmented formula that’s super long-wearing but doesn’t look heavy or draw more attention to unwanted areas. Her product of choice is ALLEVEN Color Shield because it “gives perfect long-lasting coverage and beautiful glowing skin to both face and body” and can “cover everything from acne to scars to acne.”, tattoos and varicose veins to give you the perfect limb.”
For best results, she says to spray it on desired areas from about 8 inches away. “Avoid applying too much product on one area, as this can affect its long-lasting strength and natural coverage,” she warns. “The 3D pigments are very translucent so they will color accurately and cover any blue tones caused by varicose veins.” Easy! And as if it couldn’t be better, she made sure the formula was sweat and water-resistant as well.