From Spider Veins to Varicose Veins: What Treatment Is Right for You - Art of Skin

From Spider Veins to Varicose Veins: What Treatment Is Right for You

Vein issues such as spider veins or varicose veins are more than just cosmetic concerns. At Art of Skin, we believe in treating them safely and effectively so you can feel confident in your skin again. Below, we explain what causes vein problems, what treatment options exist, and how to know if it is right for you:

What Causes Visible Veins?

Visible veins often occur when the valves in your veins weaken or become damaged. Instead of blood flowing smoothly toward your heart, some of it pools or flows backward, causing veins to enlarge or twist. You might see small spider veins near the surface, or larger, bulging varicose veins.

Some common contributing factors include:

Family history of vein disease
Standing or sitting for long periods
Pregnancy or hormonal changes
Age and weakening of vein walls
Obesity or increased pressure on the legs

If left untreated, vein issues can worsen, leading to swelling, skin changes, discomfort, or even ulcers.

How We Assess Vein Health

Before recommending treatment, our team performs a medical vascular assessment using duplex ultrasound. This helps us measure blood flow, check for reflux (backward flow), and map which veins are causing symptoms or visible changes. With that information, we tailor treatment to your unique anatomy.

Learn more about our vein treatments in Canmore.

Treatment Options at Art of SKIN

We offer a variety of minimally invasive treatments. Your dermatologist will help decide which approach is best for your situation.

Sclerotherapy
A medicated solution is injected into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and fade. Ideal for spider and small reticular veins.
Laser Vein Therapy
This treatment uses targeted light energy to seal off problematic veins, diverting blood flow to healthier vessels.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Using heat energy inside the vein, this treatment closes larger varicose veins without removing them surgically.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
For veins near the skin’s surface, this method removes them through small incisions, best for veins too large for injection alone.

With modern advances, most patients no longer need traditional vein stripping surgery, which had more downtime and risks.

Benefits of Treating Vein Issues

Choosing treatment offers more than aesthetic improvement. Benefits often include:

Relief from aches, heaviness, and leg fatigue
Decreased swelling and itchiness
Fewer visible veins and improved skin appearance
Greater comfort when wearing skirts, shorts or swimsuits
Lower risk of complications in the future

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Vein treatments may be suitable if you:

Have visible spider or varicose veins
Experience symptoms such as leg heaviness, throbbing or swelling
Have tried conservative measures such as compression stockings without success
Are otherwise healthy and committed to post-treatment care

Note: New patients often require a referral before a full vascular assessment can be performed.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Most vein procedures are done at our clinic in Canmore under local anaesthetic when needed. You may feel mild discomfort, like warmth or pinching, but treatments are generally well tolerated.

Recovery is usually quick. Many patients walk immediately and return to light activity. We often recommend compression stockings for one week or more to support healing. Bruising or swelling may occur but fades with time.

Book a Consultation

If you have concerns about visible veins, we invite you to book a consultation at Art of SKIN. Our team will create a safe, personalized plan to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your skin.

Recent Articles

Treating Acne Scars

Treating Acne Scars: Why Expert Care Makes All the Difference

digital@thestationedtraveller.com April 24, 2026

This January, Art of SKIN invites you to reset your skin and embrace a fresh start for the new year. From advanced medical aesthetic treatments to professional grade skincare, our personalized approach helps restore balance, improve texture, and support long term skin health. Discover how intentional care and expert guidance can set the foundation for radiant, confident skin all year long.

Spring Skincare Refresh with Fifth Element

Spring Skincare Refresh with Fifth Element

digital@thestationedtraveller.com April 24, 2026

As winter fades and spring arrives, your skin begins to shift. Dryness from cold air, buildup from heavier products and slower cell turnover can leave the complexion looking dull and uneven. Spring is the ideal season to reset your skin and prepare it for brighter days ahead.

At Art of SKIN, the Fifth Element Facial is one of our most effective treatments for a seasonal skin refresh. This advanced facial goes beyond the surface to restore balance, clarity and radiance.

How Does Botox works

Botox for TMJ Therapy

digital@thestationedtraveller.com April 2, 2026

Jaw tension, facial pain and chronic headaches are often dismissed as everyday stress, but for many people, these symptoms are signs of TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction can significantly impact daily life, from difficulty chewing to persistent discomfort that affects sleep, focus and overall wellbeing.