Varicose Veins: Everything you need to know about the skin condition
If varicose veins has you covering up with long skirts and pants, even at the beach, here are some tips to combat the dreaded condition.
We’re always quick to notice fine lines, wrinkles and discoloured patches on our skin, but our faces are not the only areas which need to be paid attention. Our legs too are just as much a cause for concern and can give us self-esteem issues if they don’t fit the usual mould of sleek, blemish-free pins. And one skin condition which heavily detracts from our confidence is varicose veins.
WHAT IS IT?
Varicose veins are basically twisted, enlarged veins which appear as unsightly bluish cords bulging just beneath the surface of the skin, most commonly making an appearance in your legs and ankles. Before you panic, rest assured they are very common and occur in half of all women and nearly as many men around the world.
CAUSES
Genetics, pregnancy, crossing your legs when seated and standing too long are some of the reasons cited for why your legs house visibly swollen and twisted veins that look like the surface area of the moon and they’re not wrong. Scientifically, varicose veins happen when there are weakened valves and veins in your leg. When these valves do not function as usual, blood starts to pool in your legs, leading to an increase in pressure, which over time shows up on the surface of your skin as the dreaded condition.
TREATMENT
To be sure, varicose veins are not a deadly medical condition, but from an aesthetic point of view, we can see why most ladies are not content to live with varicose veins their whole life. While there are loads of products out there that claim to treat the condition, nothing has been scientifically proven as of yet. Regardless, here are a few ways to de-bloat your legs at home.
Get a massage
Poor circulation from standing or sitting too long is related to varicose veins and we all know massages are a great way to improve circulation. A massage every other week or so should do the trick and the best part is, you could do it yourself without the need for a trip to the massage parlour.
Start exercising
Working out helps keep your weight in check which in turn doesn’t exert too much pressure on your legs when you stand. Exercising also keeps your leg muscles fit so they don’t deteriorate. That being said, it’s important to only do low-impact activities like biking, swimming and anything that doesn’t put unnecessary strain on your legs.
The right footwear
Beyond exercising, it’s important to be fitted in the right footwear that won’t cause your toes or feet to contract. It’s best to wear flats over heels as they allow calf muscles to contract fully and don’t cause undue strain on your legs. If possible, you could even wear support hose to prevent blood from pooling at your legs.
Camouflage with self-tanner
Applying temporary tanner or a bronzing moisturizer for that matter is a great way to make the blue lines less noticeable. Layer it properly to create an even tint and avoid self-tanners with shimmer as they tend to catch the light which makes your bulging protrusions more obvious.
Karen George
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