Lasers produce high-intensity light that can be used to selectively heat blood vessels. A variety of machines can be used, although the effectiveness and side effects for an individual can vary. The advantage of lasers is the ability to target the blood vessel while leaving the surrounding tissue undamaged. As a result, the risk of scarring is extremely low. Most treatments are performed by doctors who specialize in laser surgery or the technicians they supervise.
Laser treatment is usually the best option for vascular lesions of the face. On the legs, injection of a medication to destroy the blood vessel (sclerotherapy) can be a better option for spider veins. Deeper veins may need treatment with surgery or very small lasers that are inserted into larger blood vessels.