Spider Veins
Vein problems that cause cosmetic concerns usually include spider veins or reticular veins. Small varicose veins with minimal symptoms may also be a cause of cosmetic concern for patients. Spider veins are small red, blue or purple veins within the layers of the skin that do not protrude above the skin surface. Spider veins are also called telangiectasias or telangiectatic veins.
Slightly larger blue veins that do not protrude above the skin are called reticular veins.
Varicose veins are larger distended veins that are located below the skin level and somewhat deeper than spider veins.
There is no health risk regarding cosmetic veins, but they may be unsightly. Approximately 40% of people seek treatment to improve their veins for cosmetic reasons. Spider veins and reticular veins will never develop into varicose veins.