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How to Cover Spider Veins & Thread Veins

The below content has been medically reviewed and approved by Dr Mark Regi (MBBS, MRCS, FRCR), Consultant Interventional Radiologist and Clinical Lead for Education at VeinCentre.

Last reviewed: 21st July 2025

Thread veins (also known as spider veins) can sometimes affect how confident you feel in shorts, dresses or swimwear, especially during warmer months. While many people look for ways to conceal them temporarily, it’s important to understand which methods are safe and effective.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to cover spider and thread veins on the legs, as well as long-term options for removing them completely.

 

What Are Spider Veins and Thread Veins?

Spider veins (also known as thread veins) are tiny, visible blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin. They often show up on the legs or face in red, purple, or blue lines or clusters and are generally harmless but they can be difficult to ignore cosmetically.

 

How to Cover Spider Veins on Legs Safely

If you’re looking for short-term ways to hide spider veins or thread veins, there are several safe methods available:

 

1. Leg Makeup or Body Foundation

Specialist body makeup can even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of veins. Look for formulas described as the best makeup for covering thread veins, as they are typically waterproof, long-lasting, and offer high coverage.

 

2. Spray-On Leg Products

These tinted sprays are easy to apply and offer temporary coverage. Some include skin-firming ingredients and SPF protection. Always patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin.

 

3. Self-Tanning Products

Darker skin tones can help make veins less noticeable. While fake tan won’t cover veins entirely, it can reduce contrast and improve overall appearance.

If you’re searching for the best cover up for thread veins on legs, body foundation designed for high pigmentation and long wear is usually the most effective option.

While these techniques may improve the appearance temporarily, it’s important to understand that they do not treat the veins or the underlying cause.

 

When to Consider Thread Vein Treatment

It’s important to note that cosmetic coverage only masks the appearance of spider veins and thread veins; it doesn’t treat them. If you’re tired of hiding your veins and want a more permanent solution, treatment is the only way to reduce or remove them completely.

At VeinCentre, we offer walk-in, walk-out procedures for thread vein removal on legs. The most common is microsclerotherapy, a treatment where a tiny needle is used to inject a solution into the veins, causing them to fade over time.

If you’re looking for long-term relief from thread veins, our team is here to help. Get in touch today by calling 01782 753960, our team is available Monday to Friday 8am–5pm and Saturday 9am–4pm to answer your questions and help you take the next step.