At Kent Skin & Laser Clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team uses medical-grade vascular laser technology to target these vessels directly. Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What are Thread Veins?
Thread veins are tiny blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. They can be caused by genetics, sun exposure, ageing and hormonal changes, and they are also common in conditions such as rosacea.
Facial thread vein treatment may be suitable if you have:
- Visible thread veins on the face, particularly the nose and cheeks
- Thread veins that have developed alongside rosacea
- Red dots, cherry haemangiomas or spider naevus on the face or body
- A blood blister such as a venous lake on the lip
You can read more about the condition on our thread veins page. Please note that we treat facial thread veins only. We do not offer micro-sclerotherapy, the injection treatment used for leg veins, at the clinic.
Our Approach to Thread Vein Removal
Assessment and Patch Test
Treatment always begins with a dermatology consultation. Your thread veins are assessed, and a patch test is carried out to confirm that your skin type is suitable for treatment.
Vascular Laser Treatment
The laser targets the visible blood vessels directly, reducing their appearance while protecting the surrounding skin. The visible vessels usually fade gradually in the weeks after treatment. A cooling system is used throughout to improve comfort.
Treating Thread Veins Alongside Rosacea
Many patients treat thread veins as part of a broader rosacea treatment plan, since laser treatment can address both visible vessels and general redness. If rosacea is your main concern, our rosacea treatment page explains the wider options available.
Why Choose Kent Skin & Laser Clinic?
Thread vein treatment should follow a proper medical assessment. Patients choose us because we provide:
- Consultant dermatologist-led care, with laser treatment overseen by Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock, Consultant Dermatologist and the clinic's Laser Protection Supervisor
- Medical-grade vascular laser technology
- A dermatology consultation and patch test at the start of every course, so settings suit your skin
- Experienced laser practitioners, many of whom have worked with us for years
- Over 20 years of laser expertise
We welcome patients from Canterbury and across east Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover and Deal.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Your first visit is a consultation and patch test, during which we will:
- Examine your thread veins and skin
- Review your medical history and any related conditions, such as rosacea
- Carry out a patch test
- Agree a treatment plan
During treatment, the laser is passed over the visible vessels. Most patients describe a warm sensation with a brief snapping feeling, which is generally well tolerated, particularly with cooling in use.
Downtime is minimal, though you may have some temporary redness afterwards. Your laser practitioner will explain how to care for your skin, including avoiding strong sun exposure while it settles. Most patients need 1 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the number and size of the veins being treated. Individual results vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes thread veins?
Thread veins can be caused by genetics, sun exposure, ageing, hormonal changes and conditions such as rosacea. They are harmless, but many people choose treatment for cosmetic reasons.
How many thread vein treatments will I need?
Most patients need 1 to 3 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the number and size of the veins being treated, and we will give you a realistic plan at your consultation.
Is thread vein removal sore?
Most patients describe a warm sensation with a brief snapping feeling, which is generally well tolerated. A cooling system is used during treatment to improve comfort.
Will thread veins come back after treatment?
Treated veins are not expected to reappear, but new thread veins can develop over time, particularly if underlying factors such as sun exposure or rosacea are not managed. Some patients return for further treatment in future, and protecting your skin from the sun can help reduce new thread veins forming.
Can thread veins be treated alongside rosacea?
Yes. Many patients treat thread veins as part of a broader rosacea treatment plan, since laser treatment can address both visible vessels and general redness. We will advise on the right combination for you at your consultation.
Do you treat leg veins?
No. We treat facial thread veins only, and we do not offer micro-sclerotherapy, the injection treatment used for leg veins. If you have concerns about leg veins, please seek medical advice on the most suitable next step.
Book this treatment
Price
£250 to £350 per session
Fees
Vary by clinician and are confirmed at your consultation
Appointment
30 minutes
Downtime
Minimal, some temporary redness
Related treatments
“Had a very good experience on my first visit for venous lake treatment, friendly, knowledgeable and very professional staff in a great location which all helped to dispel any nervousness I had. I would definitely recommend!”
Andrew Cornwell · Patient review