Home Remedies for Spider Veins: Safety, Tips + More

Spider veins are a common problem. It is estimated that between 30% and 60% of people will develop them at some point in their lives.1…

woman stretching leg on the beach

Spider veins are a common problem. It is estimated that between 30% and 60% of people will develop them at some point in their lives.1 Most often the unsightly veins show up in the legs and feet, but they may be found on the cheeks and nose as well. 

While more of a cosmetic problem than a medical one, people still like to find ways to rid themselves of the purple or red clusters of tiny veins that mark their skin. Medical procedures can remove the blemishes, but insurance does not cover the cost. This has led to many people searching for home remedies for spider veins. 

What Causes Spider Veins? 

Unfortunately, no one is really sure what causes spider veins to develop. One theory is that they are influenced by hormones which may cause dilation of the veins. Genetics may also play a role as spider veins often run along family lines. Increased pressure in localized blood flow caused by extended periods of standing, tight clothing or high heeled shoes also seems to increase the chances of them developing. 

What Are The Symptoms of Spider Veins? 

Most often, spider veins are asymptomatic, except for the blemishes themselves. In rare cases, the sufferer may feel slight discomfort in the area surrounding the spider vein. 

Spider veins are not considered a symptom of more serious venous problems. If you see them, there is no reason to assume that something more dangerous is happening in the veins of your legs.3 You can always consult a vein specialist to be sure. 

Home Remedies for Spider Veins 

If the only symptoms you have are the appearance of spider veins, it may be safe for you to try spider vein treatment at home. You may be able to reduce the appearance of existing blemishes and prevent the development of new ones with these home remedies for spider veins. 

Exercise 

Keeping the blood flowing in your legs with exercise is the best way to prevent the formation of spider veins and may help to reduce the appearance of the ones you already have.4 Choose exercises that keep your legs moving, like walking, bike riding, and swimming. Exercise may be particularly helpful for those spider vein sufferers who must stand in one place or sit for prolonged periods during the workday. 

Gradient Compression Stockings 

Gradient compression stockings exert gentle pressure on your feet and legs to help keep the blood moving up towards the heart.5 These are most effective for those who must be on their feet all day. 

Avoid Tight Clothing 

Tight clothing, especially the types that bind around the waist and hips, can make it more difficult for the blood to flow freely through the veins of your legs.6 This can lead to blood accumulating in the veins, causing varicose and spider veins. 

Massage 

A gentle massage to the afflicted area can help to increase blood flow and work the pooled blood out of the veins.7  

Reach and Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Being overweight puts additional pressure on your entire circulatory system, but especially on the veins and arteries of the legs and feet. If you are overweight, losing weight may have a big impact on the development of spider veins and may reduce the size and discoloration of those you already have.8 If you are already at a healthy weight, keeping yourself that way will lessen the chance of developing new spider veins and may keep those that already exist from becoming more noticeable. 

Vitamin and Herbal Supplements 

Use caution when considering an over-the-counter herbal or vitamin supplement. There is little clinical evidence available to back up the success of most of these in regards to alleviating or preventing spider veins. 

A notable exception, supplements that have been shown to improve blood circulation, like cinnamon, beet powder, and garlic, may boost the effectiveness of other spider vein natural treatment.10 

Responses

When in Doubt, See A Vein Specialist 

If you have any questions about the safety of home remedies for spider veins, or if you have tried these methods and more veins keep appearing, you should see a vein specialist. They are experts in their field and they can offer advice and, if you desire, provide you with treatment options to remove the unsightly blemishes. 

To find a qualified vein specialist near you, use our Vein Specialist Locator Tool

SOURCES: 

  1. WebMD: “Varicose Veins and Spider Veins: Causes and Treatments”  
  2. MyVeinTreatment.com: “Can Spider Veins Be a Symptom of an Underlying Condition?” 
  3. MedicalNewsToday: “10 Home Remedies for Varicose Veins” 
  4. MedicalNewsToday: “10 Home Remedies for Varicose Veins” 
  5. MedicalNewsToday: “10 Home Remedies for Varicose Veins” 
  6. MyVeinTreatment.com: “Natural Remedies for Spider Veins: Do They Work?” 
  7. MedicalNewsToday: “Spider Veins: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention.” 
  8. Healthline.com: “Home Remedies for Varicose Veins” 
  9. MyVeinTreatment.com: “Natural Remedies for Spider Veins: Do They Work?”