Going tanning or using spray tan might seem like a good way to improve your skin’s appearance, but it could have the opposite effect. When you have spider veins, tanning can make them look worse. If you’re planning on spray tanning or laying out in the sun, keep the following information in mind.
The Relationship Between Spider Veins & Sun Exposure
Sun can make spider veins darker and more visible to see in some patients. This is important to keep in mind if you’re thinking of tanning in order to hide spider veins. After tanning, you could end up with more visible spider veins or with spider veins that are more noticeable. The sun’s rays break collagen down right below your blood vessels and skin. This causes these veins to take on an unsightly bluish or purplish appearance.
Exposure to heat from the sun’s rays can make spider veins worse. When you’re out in the heat, the affected veins can become enlarged and even cause some discomfort.
Should You Use Spray Tans to Cover Spider Veins Instead?
If you want to avoid sun exposure while still covering up spider veins, you might be thinking about using spray tans. These products might offer a temporary way to hide these veins, but you should be aware spray tanning may have side effects.
Some of these products contain an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which has been associated with adverse effects. Research shows that DHA spray tanning products can increase the risk of harmful effects from the sun’s UV rays and cause damage to cells.
Sclerotherapy as a Spider Vein Treatment
If you decide to avoid laying out in the sun or using spray tans to cover spider veins due to the risks, there are other options available. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that can help reduce the appearance of spider veins.
Spider veins treated with sclerotherapy will gradually disappear within a few weeks to a few months. But even after sclerotherapy, it’s prudent to avoid direct sun as the light can darken the area treated, especially in the first few months.
How to Treat Your Spider Veins
If you are interested in learning more about spider veins and treatment options, please fill out our Online Appointment Request Form or call any of our clinics in Northwest Portland , Tigard, Happy Valley or Bend, Oregon.