Sclerotherapy is one of the most commonly used methods of treatment. The visible, small, superficial vessels on the legs, called “spider veins” or telangiectasias, are best treated by sclerotherapy. This therapy involves using tiny needles to inject an irritating substance into unwanted vessels. In response to the irritation, the treated blood vessels clot and are slowly absorbed by the body.

Chapel Hill Dermatology offers two effective treatment options for these superficial blood vessels. A vascular laser can be used to target discrete blood vessels on the face. The light energy from the laser penetrates the small blood vessels, where it is converted to heat that selectively damages the lining of the vessels, causing them to resorb. When larger areas of redness need to be treated on the face, neck, or chest, we offer next-generation Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy, called Lumecca, whose large spot size makes it possible to treat broad areas efficiently and effectively. Your provider will discuss your specific needs and can make recommendations on which treatment is right for you.