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Thread Veins are a very common problem, occurring in around half of adults. These are small dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin, measuring between 0.5 and 1 millimetres in diameter. They tend to branch and give a spidery sort of pattern, hence their common name – spider veins.
The condition can occur anywhere on the body, but most often on the legs and face. While they probably do not cause discomfort, today there are treatments readily available to help make them less visible.
Thread veins can cause symptoms like burning, pain, and itching. When found on the legs, they are found specifically on the upper thigh, below the knee joint and around the ankles. On the face, the spider veins will be around the nose, cheeks, and chin.
The main causes are increasing age, genetics, hormonal changes (during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause), taking birth control pills and other medicines containing oestrogen and progesterone, being overweight or obese, lack of movement, sitting or standing for a long time, and sun exposure, specifically on the cheeks or nose of a fair-skinned person.
The first step is to avoid sun exposure, especially on the face and apply daily an SPF. The face should not be washed with extreme temperatures of water. These extremes in temperature can cause the skin to flush, triggering thread veins. Using a dry brush on dry skin, specifically on areas prone to cellulite, will speed up lymphatic drainage. Eating fruits that contain antioxidants, such as grapes, help to build connective tissue in the skin. Antioxidants track down and fight potentially harmful agents called free-radicals in the body. These types of fruits get the source of anthocyanins directly into the blood stream, strengthening capillaries and lowering the risk of thread veins. Vitamins C, E and K are all essential for maintaining good skin health. Wearing stockings will compresses the legs, which will boost the blood flow back up to the heart and reduce blood pressure in the legs, thus decreasing the risk of thread veins.
Employees in a 'high risk group' for developing thread veins - like teachers or hairdressers who are on their feet all day, are mostly affected by thread veins. Females are more prone to this condition, especially during times of hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. People with fair skin or those who tan a lot could also get thread veins, in addition to obese individuals, alcoholics, and smokers.
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Before and After photos
Before and After HC Harmony Laser Treatment
Before and After HC Harmony Laser Treatment