
Sclerotherapy & Telangiectasia Treatment:
Enhance skin confidence with a non-surgical treatment designed to fade the look of thread and spider veins.
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Sclerotherapy for Thread Veins
Treatment Overview
Sclerotherapy is a well-established, non-surgical treatment used to reduce the appearance of small thread veins, often found on the legs. It involves the careful injection of a medical solution into the targeted vein by a registered healthcare professional. This solution causes the vein walls to close, after which the body naturally redirects blood flow through healthier veins. Over time, the treated veins may gradually fade from view.


How Does Sclerotherapy Work?
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical technique designed to reduce the appearance of small thread veins on the legs. During treatment, a very fine needle is used to carefully introduce a prescription-only solution into the selected vein. This solution causes the vein walls to close, and over time the body naturally re-routes blood through healthier vessels. The treated vein may then gradually fade from view.
Key Points to Know:
- This treatment is available only after a face-to-face consultation with a qualified prescriber, who will confirm suitability.
- Most people require more than one session, with results developing gradually over several weeks.
- Common treatment areas include the thighs, calves and lower legs.
- Temporary side effects can include bruising, swelling, tenderness or brownish skin marks, which usually improve over time.

Effectiveness of Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy has been widely used for many years as a non-surgical way of reducing the appearance of small thread veins, particularly on the legs. Many clients notice visible improvement over the course of several sessions, with gradual fading of treated veins over a period of weeks.
What to Expect:
- Most people need more than one session for best results
- Improvement tends to happen gradually, usually starting a few weeks after treatment
- Smaller veins often respond more quickly than larger ones
- Individual results vary depending on vein size, location and lifestyle factors
How Long Do Results Last?
Once a treated vein has faded, it usually does not reappear. However, new veins can develop over time, particularly in people with a family history of visible veins or those who spend long periods standing. For this reason, some clients choose to have occasional maintenance sessions.
When to Expect Results
- Subtle fading may be seen within a few weeks
- Best results are often visible after a few months, once the body has absorbed the treated veins
- Following aftercare advice — such as wearing compression stockings and staying active — can support the recovery process
What to expect from your procedure:
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Treatment Duration:
30–45 minutes
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Pain Level:
Minimal, with a slight pinprick sensation
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Downtime:
Minimal, compression hosiery must be worn post-treatment
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Results Seens:
Gradual improvement over 4-8 weeks
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Longevity:
Results are long-term, however, new veins may appear over time.
Common Treatment Areas – Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is most often used on the legs, where thread veins are common. Treatment may be considered for:
- Thighs & Calves – Small surface veins in these areas can be reduced, helping many clients feel more confident in showing their legs.
- Lower Legs, Ankles & Feet – Sclerotherapy can be used here too, although results vary depending on vein size and depth.
- Behind the Knee – Smaller visible veins in this area may respond, though assessment is needed to confirm suitability.
During treatment, a very fine needle is used to introduce a prescription-only solution into the vein. This causes the vein to close, and over time it may gradually fade as the body reabsorbs it. Healthy blood flow continues through surrounding veins.
Who May Consider Sclerotherapy?
This treatment may be suitable for adults (18+) who:
- Have visible spider veins or thread veins that they would like to improve cosmetically
- Are seeking a non-surgical treatment option
- Are prepared to follow aftercare advice such as wearing compression stockings and avoiding heat or vigorous activity for a short period
- Understand that results develop gradually and more than one session may be needed
When it may not be suitable:
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you have active infection, clotting disorders, or a history of allergy to sclerosant solutions
- If deeper venous disease is suspected — referral to a vascular specialist may be recommended
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure where a prescription-only sclerosant is injected into visible veins (typically spider or thread veins), causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. The treatment improves the appearance of red, purple, or blue surface veins over time.
Important to Know.
- Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed
- Possible side effects include bruising, swelling, temporary skin marks, or mild discomfort at the injection site
- Treated veins usually fade gradually over several weeks, though new ones can appear over time
- Treatments are elective, cosmetic, and only available to adults (18+)
- A face-to-face consultation with a prescriber is required to confirm safety and suitability
Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort. The injections are delivered using a very fine needle, and any stinging or burning sensation is brief. Topical numbing cream may be used in sensitive areas if necessary.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically, 1–3 sessions are needed per treatment area, depending on the extent and depth of the thread veins. Your practitioner will advise you on an individualised plan based on vein severity and response to the first session.
When will I see results?
Initial fading may be seen in 3–6 weeks, but full clearance can take up to 3 months. Some stubborn vessels may require repeat treatment.
Are the results permanent?
The treated veins are permanently removed, but new veins may appear over time, especially if there is an underlying venous tendency. Maintenance sessions may be beneficial long term.
Why Choose Haus of Ästhetik?
At Haus of Ästhetik, we prioritise expertise, precision, and client satisfaction. Our treatments are carried out by highly trained practitioners, ensuring natural-looking results with a safety-first approach. We provide bespoke, medically led treatments tailored to your individual goals, so you can feel confident in the results.
What should I avoid after treatment?
You must wear compression stockings for 3–7 days, avoid strenuous exercise and heat exposure (hot baths, saunas, sunbeds) for 1–2 weeks, and follow all aftercare instructions. This helps reduce bruising and enhances results.
Are there any side effects?
Mild bruising, swelling, or itching at the injection site is common and usually resolves within 7–10 days. Rarely, pigmentation, matting (tiny new vessels), or inflammation can occur. These are discussed during your consultation.
Can I have laser treatment instead?
Laser is an alternative treatment for superficial red veins or facial telangiectasia. It can be especially effective in small or hard-to-reach areas. However, sclerotherapy remains the gold standard for leg veins, particularly those larger than 1mm, and tends to offer more predictable and cost-effective results in those cases.
Who is not suitable for sclerotherapy?
You may not be suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of blood clotting disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, active skin infections, or poor circulation. A medical consultation is required before treatment.
Can sclerotherapy be performed on the face?
No. Sclerotherapy is not typically used for facial veins due to the increased vascular risk. Facial telangiectasia is better suited to laser or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments.
Book your consultation today and experience the confidence-boosting benefits of injections at Haus of Ästhetik.