Spider angiomas are visible, web-like veins that appear just below the outer layer of skin. At Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, board-certified dermatologist, Jill Waibel, MD, FAAD, treats spider angiomas for men and women living all over the world.
What are Spider Angiomas?
Spider angiomas are known by several different names:
- Spider veins
- Vascular spider
- Nevus araneus
A spider angioma is a collection of small, dilated blood vessels clustered very close to the surface of the skin. The cluster resembles a cluster of web-like vessels resembling a spider. In most cases, these vascular lesions do not need treatment for medical reasons, yet many men and women do not like how the veins look.
What Causes Spider Angiomas?
These lesions can be caused by injuries (for an example an insect bite), sun exposure, hormonal changes, or other underlying diseases.
How are Spider Angiomas (Spider Veins) Treated?
Treatment for spider angiomas involves destroying the veins with laser energy, which seals the veins and prevents blood flow. Your body naturally reroutes the blood through healthier veins. Over time, the damaged veins are absorbed by your body.
