Q: What is spider vein cream and does it work?

A: Spider vein cream is the term used to describe any of the numerous topical creams, lotions, and ointments on the market which are formulated to help spider veins.

How It Works
Although there are many different brands and formulations out there, they tend to all have one thing in common – their active ingredient is vitamin K. This vitamin is said to help promote clotting in your circulatory system (not the bad kind, but the normal, healthy kind). The typical concentration of vitamin K found in these products is usually 5% or less.

When it comes to spider veins, it is said that this vitamin helps to the problem capillaries by restricting the blood flow and therefore causing them to diminish in appearance and possibly fade away completely.

Using It
Typically, the treatment takes place over several weeks and involves rubbing the cream onto the problem area on a daily basis (the exact number of applications varies by product). After the course of the treatment, many people experience any improvement.

Why People Like It
One of the main reasons people resort to this method is because it is a cost effective option. Before they spend more money on professional treatments, many try an OTC cream out first to see if that can help. Many also like the idea that it is considered a natural solution since it utilizes vitamin K and other holistic ingredients to reportedly help repair spider veins on legs, face, or other areas.

Why People Don’t Like It
Of course like everything, there are some who do not prefer this treatment. They say the treatment takes too long or they say it does not give dramatic enough results for some. Personally I feel the time frame is very reasonable, but I understand why some complain about the results. The truth of the matter is that with severe cases, spider vein cream is probably not going to do the job. If that’s the case you should speak with your physician about other spider vein removal treatments.