Spider veins are one of the most common types of facial veins. Approximately more than 80 million Americans will develop some type of vein disorder and yet many people are still misinformed about what causes facial veins and how to treat them. Here is a list of the most common facial spider vein myths:
Myth: Intense pulsed light treatment can increase the risk for skin cancer
The intense pulsed light treatment for facial veins utilizes wavelengths of filtered light that emits non-ionizing radiation. Unlike ultraviolet radiation, the intense pulsed light energy is not powerful enough to damage the skin.
Myth: Only women suffer from spider veins
Women and men can both develop spider veins. However, women are at a higher risk of developing them due to hormones during puberty and pregnancy and as a result of oral contraceptive use.
Myth: Tanning can remove facial veins
Tanning cannot eliminate facial veins. Skin that is darker can slightly mask the appearance of veins but will not make them disappear. In fact, too much sun exposure can cause skin damage that can increase the chances of developing facial veins.
Myth: Only older people get facial veins
Facial veins can affect anyone at virtually any age. Although facial veins commonly occur when we are older, younger people, especially women, can also develop them as a result of facial trauma, pregnancy, and overexposure to the sun. Being properly informed about the causes of facial veins can help you better protect yourself from developing the condition. Furthermore, visiting your skin care specialist early on can prevent your condition from becoming worse and causing other problems such as damage to the skin, ulcers, and blood clots.
