Archive for category: Latest News & Updates

Increasing Numbers of Men Seek Vein Treatment

USA Statistics

According to the American Society for Vascular Surgery, about 40 million Americans have vein disease – and approximately 1 in 5 is male.

So while vein problems such as varicose veins are traditionally considered to be more prevalent in female patients, more and more vein specialists are seeing men enquire into treatment or attend for vein consultations.

Nick Morrison MD, FACS, FACPh explained:

“It brings them peace of mind to know if there’s a deeper underlying condition like deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), and yes, men are even concerned about vanity aspects too. Some will admit to being embarrassed by friends or family members pointing veins out.”

Healthy Men Too

Varicose veins can be a higher risk for those suffering with other health problems – such as excess weight. However, that is not always the case.

Some men who exercise regularly – such as cyclists or runners – can still find they have varicose veins. This is more likely if a parent or grandparent suffered from them, as vein problems tend to be hereditary. Indeed, sometimes certain forms of heavy exercise could exacerbate vein problems. Nick Morrison goes on to explain:

“Exercise is critical for vein disease prevention, but for some a shift in their routine may be required. Activities like weightlifting, if you’re using very heavy weights, can be hard on veins.”

Varicose Vein Removal

Varicose vein removal is now available at Cosmedics Skin Clinics private clinic based in Putney, London.

The clinic offers the latest techniques including laser varicose vein removal as well as foam sclerotherapy and microsurgery. Treatment is provided by a top vascular surgeon and is carried out under local anaesthetic. There is no need for an overnight stay and patients can walk out unaided after treatment.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.

Choosing the wrong style or fit of sandals this summer could cause vein problems, according to a feature on Cosmopolitan.com. 

Tight strappy sandals might look cool or pretty, but they can put extra pressure on the feet and legs which in turn puts a strain on the vein walls. This can slow down the circulation in the legs, causing tissues to swell.

Short term problems that can arise range from tight ‘strap mark’ impressions and rubbing to severe blisters, causing many women to resort to removing their sandals on a night out. These problems tend to go away with a bit of rest, massage and plasters if required.

However, there are longer term risks too. The pressure on the tissues can worsen or trigger spider veins or thread veins. This is where the tiny blood vessels become enlarged so that they are visible under the surface of the skin and this is something that won’t necessarily go away. Some people are more at risk of spider veins or thread veins that others. They tend to run in the family, but there is also an increased risk for those who have excess weight, stand for long periods of time, smoke or take oral contraception.

Avoiding Spider Veins from Inappropriate Footwear!

Here’s some advice on how to protect the feet and legs from the onset of veins related to badly fitting sandals or shoes:

1. The right size: Simply make sure that any new shoes fit well and don’t be tempted to have any that are too tight just because they’re pretty.
2. Borrow with caution: If you’re borrowing shoes, don’t compromise on comfort and fit.
3. Try on shoes for fit and comfort: Have a good walk around the shop before parting with your credit card.
4. Two finger test: You should be able to fit two fingers beneath each strap.
5. Vary shoe styles: Don’t always reach for strappy heels, even for work. Try to have some days with comfy flats too, so that the blood can circulate more freely and efficiently.
6. Adjust your sandals: Loosen the buckle to undo compression if you are finding them feeling tighter
7. Take a break: Remove your sandals or shoes altogether for a bit if they’re feeling very uncomfortable.

Treating Spider Veins

Unwanted thread veins or spider veins can be treated in private clinics like Cosmedics Skin Clinics, who offer thread vein removal at a selection of clinics based in Londonl.

Thread veins are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser vein treatment, microcautery treatment and sclerotherapy injections (not for facial areas) with trained doctors and surgeons.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.

If you’re embarrassed by the appearance of spider veins or thread veins,  you’re not alone. 

Many UK adults struggle with these networks of capillaries or veins, visible at the surface of the skin.

For minor vein issues, there are practical measures that you can take to disguise the veins:

Disguising Leg Veins

Humble self-tan can be used to darken pale skin, making the veins less obvious. This is best applied at night and the blue lines should be less noticeable by the time you wake up.

Anna Stankiewicz, a spray tanner at Louise O’Connor OC61 Salon & Spa in New York City says:

“If you’re really pale, you need to go at least two shades darker than your natural skin color”.

Jenni Blafer, owner of Sunkissed by Jenni in Los Angeles also advises avoiding self-tanners with shimmer,

“especially if the veins are raised. The light reflection will make protrusions more pronounced.”

Disguising Facial Veins

Again, self-tan is an option here, giving the skin a darker tone which makes the veins less noticeable.

Another option is make-up. Specialist foundation is available which can cover up issues like thread veins and also birth marks or pigmentation problems. However, it does tend to be quite thick and heavy to wear and not everybody gets on with it.

Thread Vein Treatment

Ultimately, the best option may be to arrange treatment of unwanted thread veins.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics offer private thread vein removal at a selection of clinics based in London.

Thread veins are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser vein treatment, microcautery treatment and sclerotherapy injections (not for facial areas) with trained doctors and surgeons.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.