Visible veins are normal and healthy, however in some people they are excessive or unsightly. Factors such as genetics, hormones, and lifestyle can worsen the appearance of the veins on the legs. Compression hose can help prevent spider vein from forming over time but do not treat the vessels themselves. Sclerotherapy is the standard of care for treatment of spider and blue veins on the legs. 

Sclerotherapy is the injection of small amounts of solution directly into unwanted veins with a very fine needle. The solution irritates the veins, causing them to swell, stick together, and clot. Over a period of weeks, the treated veins turn into scar tissue that is absorbed by the body. Eventually the scar tissue becomes barely noticeable or invisible. Multiple sessions are typically necessary but very effective over time. 

Spider veins are small vessels that often appear red or purple and are close to the surface of the skin. They can look like little tree branches or spider webs. Spider veins can be found on the legs and face and can grow to cover a very large area of skin. Reticular veins are a larger variety of spider veins, often with a straighter and bluer appearance. Reticular veins play an important role in the formation of spider veins, serving as the source of blood that fills them. Because of this, removing reticular veins will help eliminate spider veins.

Varicose veins are abnormal veins that become large and swollen. These veins bulge out and rise above the surface appearing as rope-like structures. Varicose veins commonly develop on the legs and feet, but can occur on any part of the body. They may be painful and may require surgery or endovascular ablation.