Some people love being spontaneous. It keeps life interesting and it keeps those around them on their toes! But when it comes to sclerotherapy treatments, spontaneity is not something I recommend.
Sclerotherapy can help to minimise the appearance of any unwanted spider veins on the legs. Once your course is complete, you’ll then have the freedom to be as spontaneous as you like without concerns about visible veins holding you back.
Throw on shorts at a moment’s notice, impulse buy that mini skirt, or book a last minute beach holiday and finally feel good in that bikini!
It Starts With a Conversation
If you’ve noticed spider veins on your legs and you’re keen to find a safe and effective solution to minimise them, book a consultation and let’s have a conversation. I’ll talk through your concerns, examine your veins, discuss your medical history, and assess if you’re suitable for treatment.
Is sclerotherapy the right treatment for you?
First up, it is important to note that sclerotherapy is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, has high blood pressure, swelling of the legs (oedema), or peripheral diabetic neuropathy, or those on blood thinning medication.
Secondly, it is important to understand the difference between the types of veins you may see when examining your legs:
- Varicose veins are typically swollen, hard, bulgy, twisted, and bluey-purple in colour. They are sometimes accompanied by symptoms such as aching in the legs, plus an itchy, burning sensation. These cannot be treated with sclerotherapy and most likely require surgery.
- Reticular veins are are slightly larger than spider veins but smaller than varicose, are blue-purple in appearance and you can sometimes feel them palpate. They don't protrude from the skin like varicose veins. Unlike spider veins these only appear on the legs only. These can be treated with foam sclerotherapy and are generally performed by the Clinical Director at the clinic.
- Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias or thread veins, are usually red in colour and are branch-like in appearance. They often appear on the face and legs and are caused by damage to blood vessels just beneath your skin's surface. The spider veins on the legs can be treated with micro-sclerotherapy and are generally performed by myself at the clinic.
How does sclerotherapy work?
Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a liquid or foam solution directly into the spider vein. This causes it to swell, stick together, and then seal shut. Other nearby healthy blood vessels compensate for the vein that is closed, so there is no need to worry about the effect on your circulation. When the blood stops flowing through the spider vein, the vein will gradually fade.
Planning for Sclerotherapy Treatments
Many patients ask whether they should shave or wax their legs before starting sclerotherapy. The answer is entirely up to you - just avoid doing it immediately before your appointment.
Please also refrain from applying fake tan beforehand, as it’s important that I can clearly see the veins during treatment.
Preparing for treatments
Sclerotherapy produces the best results when planned carefully. It’s not a quick fix, and improvements take time, often requiring multiple sessions. To achieve the best outcome:
- 48 hours before and after treatment: Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
- First 72 hours: Wear your compression stockings continuously, day and night. Do not remove them, even for washing.
- Following 7 days (after initial 72 hours): Continue wearing the stockings during the day only.
- First 2 weeks: Stay active with gentle movement, but avoid strenuous exercise.
- First 4 weeks: Avoid swimming, the sea, spas, and saunas to reduce the risk of infection.
- First 6–8 weeks: Expect bruising that may last up to 8 weeks. Your legs might look worse before they improve—trust the process.
Planning your treatment schedule
Most patients require between one to four sessions, spaced approximately six weeks apart. However, the number of treatments depends on individual factors such as vein severity and your body’s response.
If you’re aiming for clearer legs ahead of an event or occasion, it’s best to plan early and schedule appointments well in advance. A little organisation now ensures your legs look their best later.
Finally because the wearing of compressions stockings is essential - this treatment is best had during the cooler months autumn through winter - so don't wait till just before summer!
You’re in safe hands
I have been performing sclerotherapy treatments for many years with a lot of success. I also take a proactive approach to keeping up to date with the latest treatment developments and protocols, attending major conferences in London where consultants, nurses and practitioners perform demonstrations and discuss their experiences.
Book a consultation to start your conversation about micro-sclerotherapy.
Authors experience
Nurse Elspeth has over eight years in patient care and has been performing sclerotherapy treatments for several years. She is a qualified member of the British Association of Sclerotherapists.
Resource links:
- British College of Aesthetic Medicine – Sclerotherapy
- Harvard Health Publishing – Minimally Invasive Treatments for Bothersome Leg Veins, 2011
- BAS – The Professional Sclerotherapy Association for UK and Ireland
- NHS – Treatment, Varicose Veins
- RealSelf – Sclerotherapy, What You Need to Know