Vascular lesions, especially spider veins—the small unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins—are common cosmetic problems for males and females alike. They can affect everywhere from the face and neck to the chest, abdomen, thighs, calves and ankles. Most vascular lesions can be treated safely and effectively with laser or IPL technology. However, varicose veins and certain associated spider veins on the legs may require sclerotherapy (injection of a sclerosing agent into the veins) or, in bad cases, surgery.

In employing Intense Pulsed Light therapy to treat vascular lesions, cool gel is first applied to the area to be treated. The machine’s intense pulses of light are directed via a hand piece to the bothersome veins, damaging them without harming the surrounding skin tissue. After treatment, there may be some skin redness and slight bruising in the treated area. For best results several courses of treatment at 4-6 week intervals may be necessary.