Laser therapy for leg veins.

Visible veins on the leg are a common cosmetic concern affecting approximately 80% of women in the United States (Engel A, Johnson MI, Haynes SG. Health effects of sunlight exposure in the United States: results from the first national health and nutrition examination survey, 1971-1974. Arch Dermatol 1988;124:72-9). Without a quick and noninvasive treatment available, leg veins present a therapeutic challenge. This challenge has been tackled by the design of lasers with longer pulse durations, and the use of lasers with longer wavelengths and cooling devices. Recent studies show the efficacy of laser treatment beginning to approach that of sclerotherapy, the gold standard. This review outlines the principles guiding laser treatment, the current available options, and a clinically oriented approach to treating leg veins.