If you've been using compression stockings to treat your varicose veins you might want to reconsider chica. These may have been the forefront of treatment for years, but now experts are claiming that they don't do squat for those bluish, greenish veins of yours. In fact, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) even issued a recommendation to doctors to stop prescribing these stockings as a first-line treatment to patients. They believe that the National Health Service (NHS) has been supporting this simple option ONLY to avoid costs on more expensive, but effective treatments!
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I have to say I'm actually kind of surprised by this. For years, I've seen my abuelas and tías rocking those super tight stockings, swearing that they actually helped reduce the appearance and symptoms of embarrassing varicose veins (and their pesky friends, spider veins). The thing that sucks the most about these veins is literally anyone could get them. Blame the usual suspects like pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, weight gain, or your mami–it's also genetic!
All these things basically slow down regular blood flow and cause veins to become swollen and twisted near the surface of your skin, and therefore visible. Treatments like VNUS Closure (which uses radiofrequency energy to close and remove varicose veins), Endovenus Laser Treatment (EVLT) a laser treatment, and Sclerotherapy, a chemical solution that's injected around the veins still prove to be the most effective treatments outside of surgery. But they can cost you almost as much. So if you're just looking for quick and cheap ways to cover those veins up, check out a few of these helpful products below!
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Treatment cream
Believe it or not, certain over-the-counter creams can actually help reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Try the Vita-K Solution Professional Spider Veins Treatment ($15). It's made with vitamin K, vitamin C, and anti-aging peptides that help diminish spider veins as well as improve your skin's tone and elasticity.
Correcting primer
The Smashbox Photo Finish Correcting Foundation Primer ($38) is packed with vitamins A & E, along with an apricot-toned tint to help even out your skin tone and counteract dark spots or noticeable veins.
Pills
Look for all-natural pellets, like Dr. Hauschka Skin Care Holistic Home Remedies Borage Varicose Vein Relief ($13). They work to strengthen weakened veins, which helps reduce its appearance.
Body makeup
You can also try camouflaging your veins with makeup, like Dermablend Professional Leg & Body Cover ($28). It comes in a range of shades to match your skin tone and stays put for hours!
Self-tanner
A self tanner, like Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs ($14) also helps hide imperfections like veins, manchas, or even freckles.
