Spider veins are a group of dilated veins that appear close to the surface of the skin and look like spider webs or tree branches. They are usually red, blue or purple. Although they can develop anywhere, they are most common on the legs and face. Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins, but they are sometimes located together. The most obvious sign of spider veins is their web-like appearance on the skin.

A number of factors increase your risk of developing this condition, including: ageing, heredity (family history of the condition), a history of blood clots, taking oral birth control pills, hormonal changes during puberty or menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, pregnancy, standing or sitting for long periods of time, wearing a girdle or clothing that is too tight, obesity, constipation, sun exposure (in light-skinned people).

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They appear as fine, visible lines that can be red, purple, or bluish in color, often forming clusters that resemble a spider web or tiny tree branches. Thread veins are caused by various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes, which weaken the tiny blood vessels. They appear most commonly and noticeably on the legs (especially the thighs, calves, and ankles) and the face (particularly the cheeks and sides of the nose).