Spider Veins in Men: More Common Than You Think
Spider veins are often discussed as a women’s concern, but they are also very common in men.
The Edinburgh Vein Study, a large population study involving 1,566 adults aged 16–64, found telangiectasia—the medical term used for spider veins—in 79% of men and 88% of women. The same study found that trunk varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency were slightly more common in men.
In other words, visible leg veins in men are not unusual. They are simply discussed less often.
Some men seek treatment because the veins affect their confidence, while others are concerned that visible veins may indicate an underlying circulation problem. A proper assessment can help distinguish between the two.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small, dilated blood vessels visible just beneath the surface of the skin.
They usually appear red, blue or purple and may form fine branching lines or clusters resembling a spider’s web. They are generally around one millimetre or less in diameter.
Spider veins are different from:
Reticular veins: Bluish vessels approximately 1–3 mm in diameter that may appear twisted or zigzagged beneath the skin.
Varicose veins: Larger, deeper veins that may appear raised, twisted or bulging.
In men, spider veins commonly appear around the thighs, behind the knees, on the calves, and around the ankles and feet. The Edinburgh Vein Study found that the back and inner thigh, the area behind the knee and the upper calf were among the most frequently affected areas.
Why Do Men Develop Spider Veins?
Spider veins develop when small blood vessels close to the skin become dilated and more visible. It is not always possible to identify one specific cause.
Factors that may contribute include:
- Family history
- Increasing age
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Higher body weight
- Previous injury or trauma
- Sun exposure
- Smoking, including previous smoking
- Hormonal factors and some medications
- Certain connective-tissue or genetic conditions
- Underlying venous disease
Family history is one of the strongest recognised risk factors for both spider veins and varicose veins.
Occupational factors may also be relevant. Men working in trades, hospitality, retail, healthcare, transport or desk-based roles may spend long periods standing or sitting in one position.
Remaining still for extended periods reduces the calf-muscle activity that normally helps move blood from the legs back towards the heart.
When Could Visible Veins Indicate an Underlying Problem?
Spider veins are generally harmless and may be an appearance-related concern only.
However, extensive spider veins—particularly when accompanied by leg symptoms or skin changes—may sometimes occur alongside chronic venous insufficiency. This is a condition in which the valves inside the leg veins do not function effectively, allowing blood to pool in the legs.
Visible veins alone cannot confirm or exclude an underlying venous problem.
In the Edinburgh Vein Study, fewer than 1% of people with significant trunk varicose veins had no telangiectasia. However, approximately half of those with more severe telangiectasia had no clinically visible trunk varicose veins.
This illustrates why the appearance of the surface veins does not always show what is happening in the deeper venous system.
Consider arranging an assessment if visible veins are accompanied by:
- Aching, heaviness or tiredness in the legs
- Burning, throbbing or cramping
- Symptoms that worsen after prolonged standing
- Swelling around the lower legs or ankles
- Itching around the affected area
- Changes in the colour or texture of the skin near the ankle
- Veins that are becoming more extensive or prominent
Seek prompt medical attention if a vein becomes suddenly swollen, warm, red or tender, if bleeding occurs from a surface vein, or if a sore or ulcer develops near the ankle.
Where symptoms are caused by underlying venous disease, treating the surface spider veins alone will not address the cause. This is why assessment may be recommended before laser treatment.
More Than a Cosmetic Assessment
At VEIN + SKIN, visible leg veins are assessed in a specialist medical environment rather than being treated based on appearance alone.
Where clinically appropriate, patients may be eligible for a vascular ultrasound with no out-of-pocket cost when they have a valid GP referral.
A duplex vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive examination that uses sound waves to assess the veins beneath the skin. It can examine the direction of blood flow and determine whether the valves within the veins are functioning effectively.
No needles, radiation or contrast dye are used.
The findings help determine the most appropriate next step. This may include laser treatment of the visible vessels or, where an underlying venous problem is identified, further vascular assessment and management before surface treatment.
Laser Treatment for Spider Veins in Men
Where treatment is appropriate, VEIN + SKIN uses the Cutera Excel V+, a vascular laser system with 532 nm and 1064 nm wavelengths and integrated skin cooling.
The two wavelengths allow treatment to be adjusted according to factors such as the vessel’s colour, size and depth, as well as the patient’s skin type.
During treatment, targeted laser energy is absorbed by haemoglobin within the visible blood vessel. This produces controlled heat, causing the vessel to close. The body then gradually clears the treated vessel over the following weeks.
The number of sessions required varies between patients. More than one treatment is commonly needed, particularly where there are multiple vessels or larger treatment areas.
Temporary redness, swelling, bruising or darkening of the treated vessels may occur. Less common risks, including blistering, changes in skin pigmentation or scarring, will be discussed during consultation.
Spider veins may recur, and new vessels can develop over time, particularly when underlying risk factors remain. Suitability, treatment expectations and the likely number of sessions are assessed individually.
Access to a Vascular Surgeon On Site
VEIN + SKIN is located within a specialist vascular practice at North Shore Private Hospital in St Leonards.
Vascular and endovascular surgeon Dr Igor Banzic is available on site when a specialist vascular opinion is required.
This provides patients with access to vascular ultrasound, laser treatment and specialist vascular assessment within the same medical setting.
Supporting Healthy Leg Circulation
Measures that may support venous circulation include:
- Avoiding sitting or standing in one position for extended periods
- Taking regular walking or movement breaks
- Flexing the ankles and contracting the calf muscles when seated
- Participating in regular physical activity
- Elevating the legs periodically
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Wearing compression stockings when recommended following assessment
These measures may support circulation and help reduce venous pressure, but they will not remove spider veins that are already present.
Spider Veins Are Not Only a Women’s Issue
Many men feel self-conscious about visible leg veins but delay seeking advice because vein treatment is often marketed primarily towards women.
The population evidence does not support the idea that spider veins are predominantly a women’s issue. They are very common in men, and other forms of venous disease may be at least as common in men as they are in women.
Whether the veins are affecting your confidence or causing concern about your circulation, an assessment can help determine whether treatment is appropriate and whether further investigation is recommended.
To arrange an appointment, contact:
VEIN + SKIN Suite 5, Level 5 North Shore Private Hospital St Leonards NSW
Phone: (02) 9439 8972
Frequently Asked Questions
Are spider veins in men different from spider veins in women?
The blood vessels themselves are the same. However, the contributing factors may differ. Pregnancy and hormonal changes may play a greater role in women, while family history, age, occupational standing or sitting, and body weight may be more relevant for some men.
Do spider veins mean that I have varicose veins?
Not necessarily. Spider veins can occur without clinically apparent varicose veins. An examination and, where appropriate, vascular ultrasound can determine whether an underlying venous problem is present.
Is a vascular ultrasound painful?
No. Duplex ultrasound is non-invasive and uses sound waves to examine blood flow. It does not involve needles, radiation or contrast dye.
Do I need a GP referral?
A GP referral is not required simply to contact VEIN + SKIN or arrange an initial appointment. However, a valid GP referral is required for an eligible vascular ultrasound to be bulk-billed.
Will spider veins return after treatment?
Treated vessels may respond well to treatment, but new spider veins can develop over time. Some patients choose to have maintenance treatments. Individual results vary.
How many laser sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on the number, size, depth and location of the vessels, as well as the individual response to treatment. This will be discussed during consultation.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Treatment suitability, risks and results vary between individuals. Speak with your GP or a qualified health practitioner about your circumstances.
References
Ruckley CV, Evans CJ, Allan PL, Lee AJ, Fowkes FGR. Telangiectasia in the Edinburgh Vein Study: Epidemiology and association with trunk varices and symptoms. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. 2008;36(6):719–724. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18848475/
Evans CJ, Fowkes FGR, Ruckley CV, Lee AJ. Prevalence of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency in men and women in the general population: Edinburgh Vein Study. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.1999;53(3):149–153. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1756838/
Cleveland Clinic. Spider Veins: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24567-spider-veins (accessed 31 July 2026)
Mayo Clinic. Varicose Veins: Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643 (accessed 31 July 2026)