Photofacial treatment, aka intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, uses a non-laser, high-intensity source of light to treat spider veins, as well as a variety of other skin problems.
If you to free of those pesky spider veins below your eyes, then photofacial treatment is your choice.
How does photofacial treatment for spider veins work?
The light from the IPL device generates heat in your veins. This causes the walls of the vein to collapse and form scar tissue. Eventually, these veins will be reabsorbed by your body and fade away after several weeks.
IPL affects the lower layers of your skin rather than the top, allowing it to reach deeper structures, like the spider veins, without burning the surface.
What is recovery like?
You will be able to resume your normal activities immediately after IPL treatment. You may have some redness or bruising on the skin near the treated spider veins. This should last only a few days to weeks.
Will my insurance cover IPL treatment?
Private insurers generally cover procedures with demonstrated “medical need.” IPL procedures, though, are often considered cosmetic.