Visible veins on the hands are a part of aging, but for many of us, they can be a source of embarrassment. While they’re not a medical concern, prominent hand veins can make us look aged or weathered, especially when the skin has thinned over time. At Vein Institute, we specialize in safe, effective, and minimally invasive solutions to get smoother, more youthful-looking hands.
If you find yourself hiding your hands in photos or feeling self-conscious in social situations because of bulging veins, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to live with it. Modern hand vein treatments are quick, safe, and designed with your lifestyle in mind.
What Causes Bulging Hand Veins?
Hand veins become more prominent for several reasons:
- Aging: As we age, skin loses collagen and elasticity, and becomes thinner and more transparent.
- Low body fat: Lean individuals have less fatty tissue on their hands which makes veins more visible.
- Genetics: Some people naturally have more visible veins due to hereditary factors.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise, especially weightlifting, can enlarge veins over time.
- Sun exposure: Prolonged UV exposure accelerates skin thinning which makes veins more prominent.
Though these veins are healthy and functioning properly, their appearance can be distressing, especially if they don’t match the youthfulness of the rest of your look.
Hand Vein Treatments at The Vein Institute
At The Vein Institute, we create personalized hand vein treatment plans based on your unique anatomy and goals. Our most common treatment options are:
1. Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the gold standard for treating visible veins, whether in the legs or hands. During the procedure, a trained provider injects a medical solution called a sclerosant directly into the vein. This irritates the vein lining, causing it to close and be naturally absorbed by the body over time.
- What to expect: In-office procedure, usually 30 minutes.
- Downtime: Minimal; most patients can return to normal activities the same day.
- Results: Noticeable reduction in visible veins within a few weeks. Multiple sessions may be recommended for best results.
- Comfort: The procedure is usually well tolerated, and only minor discomfort.Sclerotherapy is best for veins that are large, ropey or bulging from the skin.
2. RADIESSE® Dermal Fillers
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the veins themselves but with the volume loss in the hands that makes them more visible. In these cases, we use RADIESSE®, an FDA approved dermal filler, to restore lost volume and camouflage underlying veins and tendons.
- How it works: RADIESSE® is injected under the skin and immediately plumps the area while also stimulating collagen production for long term rejuvenation.
- Duration: Results can last up to 12-18 months.
- Ideal candidate: Patients with thin, sunken hands and minimal bulging veins.
When volume is restored, the skin appears smoother and suppler, and veins become far less visible.
3. Combination Therapy
For some patients, combining sclerotherapy and RADIESSE® injections produces the most natural and satisfying results. The sclerotherapy targets large, unnecessary veins while the dermal filler smooths out the skin’s surface and hides any remaining vascular texture.
This dual approach ensures comprehensive treatment by addressing both the internal and surface level causes of prominent veins.
The Treatment Experience
At The Vein Institute, your safety and comfort come first. Here’s what a typical treatment journey looks like:
- Consultation: Our specialists evaluate your hands, medical history, and desired outcome.
- Customized Plan: We recommend the best course of treatment – whether it’s sclerotherapy, RADIESSE®, or both.
- In-Office Procedure: Treatments take under an hour and are performed by experienced vein professionals.
- Aftercare: You may be advised to wear compression gloves, avoid heavy lifting for a day or two, and keep your hands moisturized and protected from the sun.
The procedures are minimally invasive, with no incisions and no scarring, making them perfect for busy professionals and anyone who wants real results with little downtime.
Results You Can See and Feel
Patients often report that after treatment, their hands not only look younger but also feel more comfortable. Many experience improved self-esteem and confidence in their appearance, especially in social situations where hand gestures and handshakes are common.
In addition to cosmetic benefits, removing unnecessary superficial veins may also improve circulation efficiency and reduce minor discomfort associated with vein pressure.
Hand Care Tips:
After treatment, be sure to:
- Wear sunscreen to prevent further thinning and discoloration.
- Stay hydrated to keep skin plump and healthy.
- Moisturize regularly with a hydrating cream or lotion.
- Avoid smoking which accelerates collagen loss.
- Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended by your provider.
Hands are like the face and neck, they need to be cared for and protected to look youthful.
Why The Vein Institute?
We specialize in vein health and aesthetics. Our team of board-certified vein specialists has advanced training in cosmetic and medical vein treatments. We use the latest technology, advanced imaging, and evidence based techniques to get you the best results.
Whether you’re concerned about appearance or discomfort from enlarged veins, we’re here to help you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Book Your Consultation
Ready to get your hands looking and feeling great again? Contact us today. We’ll walk you through all your options and help you choose the best treatment for you.
You deserve hands that look as good as you feel.