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Spider Veins, Varicose Veins and Stretch Marks, 'Tis the season for opaque tights and long pants, but a little TLC now can help ensure your legs are ready for the spring thaw. As we grow older, the effects of gravity, family history and life factors, such as experiencing pregnancy and sitting or standing for long periods of time, can appear on our legs. Spider veins have the appearance of faint purplish spider webs or tree branches on the skin surface. Varicose veins can be visible under the skin or protrude, causing lumps or ropy bulges. Carrying excess pounds can increase pressure in the legs and cause valves to malfunction, creating both types of dilated veins. Other symptoms include leg swelling or fatigue, especially at the end of the day. home improvement No matter what shape your legs are in, lifestyle changes can improve the way they look and feel. To keep your legs healthier and looking their best: • Ditch the high heels. Opt for lower-heeled shoes whenever possible, as they can actually help increase blood flow. If you want to break out those stilettos for dinner or a meeting, have a spare pair of flats tucked away for relief. health + beauty \\ 3 Oh My! • Take a 10-minute break. Whether you're on your feet all day or seated at a desk job, prolonged standing or sitting can make spider and varicose veins worse. Break up your day to boost circulation by stretching, taking a short walk around the office or getting outside and grabbing a latte. If you're regularly on your feet, sit for a while. • Wear clothes that fit. Too-tight clothes and restrictive accessories can reduce blood flow, so always select comfortable garments that don't impede circulation. If your doctor recommends it, wear compression stockings under pants or skirts to improve blood circulation. Pantyhose and leggings can also help fight fatigue. advanced vein therapy New minimally invasive options are available to treat the symptoms associated with and the appearance of spider and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy and microsclerotherapy involve injecting a chemical into varicose and spider veins, respectively, to close and fade them. Endovenous ablation therapy uses radio waves or lasers to heat and seal larger veins in the leg that may be the source of symptoms. Baby Your Skin Stretch marks form when the skin stretches quickly due to weight gain related to pregnancy or other causes. When first formed, these marks can be sore to the touch and look reddish blue. To reduce redness, moisturize daily. Look for key ingredients, such as cocoa butter, which penetrates the skin's top layer to prevent damage, and collagen and elastin, which fill in and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Coconut oil is an all-natural moisturizer that can be used head to toe.