What causes spider veins on the face?

The most likely culprit is too much time in the sun.  Additional causes include estrogen effects, alcohol intake and trauma.

Where are these veins located?

A common location is on the side of the nose or across the cheekbones but spider veins can occur anywhere on the face due to the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.

What is the best treatment for spider veins on the face?

A laser light source with a wavelength that targets the red or purple color of the vein is the most likely to remove the veins without scarring.

How long will a treatment last?

Usually treatments with a laser are fast, under ten minutes.

Is laser treatment painful?

No, most patients describe the sensation as being snapped by a rubber band.  After treatment a cooling aloe gel is applied.  Topical Vitamin C serum also is useful in speeding healing.

Are there any side effects of laser treatments?

An expected, temporary result of laser treatment of the spider vein is that the vein will turn dark purple or bruise around the vein.  This usually clears within a week or two and can be managed by cover up makeup such as Dermablend.   

If the treated area is exposed to the sun, a lightened area or even scarring can result so it's best to avoid sun for at least three weeks before and after a laser treatment.

Will the laser-treated veins return?