Post Sclerotherapy Procedure Tips
Sclerotherapy is a procedure that’s used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It’s a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment that uses a drug called sclerosant to destroy the vein walls. The sclerosant makes them collapse and causes them to disappear over time. After the procedure, it’s important to watch what you eat and do so that your body heals properly. Below we’ll outline what we recommend avoiding after sclerotherapy treatment:
1. Avoid Applying Makeup or Lotion
The sclerotherapy procedure causes your veins to swell, so it is important to avoid using any products that may irritate the skin and cause additional swelling. Apply oil-free cosmetics, such as powder-free foundation, concealer, and mascara. Do not use any skin lotions containing alcohol or fragrance because this can increase irritation and slow down healing.
2. Avoid Wearing Tight Clothing
After a sclerotherapy procedure, you can expect some swelling of the skin. While this is normal and will go away within a week or so, it is important to avoid wearing tight clothing for at least two weeks after your appointment.
- Avoiding tight clothing will help prevent further irritation to your skin and discomfort with the treatment procedure.
- Instead, wear loose-fitting garments that allow air to circulate around the treated areas and stay warm at night while sleeping with blankets or sheets over your legs if possible.
3. Avoid Strenuous Exercise, Hot Baths, or Saunas for 2 Weeks
You should avoid strenuous exercise or hot baths or saunas for at least 2 weeks. You should also avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks. You may also want to consider avoiding shaving your legs for the same amount of time, as this could cause irritation where the sclerosing solution was injected.
4. Avoid Sun Exposure
It’s important to avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks after the procedure. If you don’t, your skin could become discolored, and the sclerotherapy results may not be as effective. Also, keep in mind that wearing sunscreen is vital. And finally, wear protective clothing—long sleeves and pants—to prevent further damage from UV rays.
5. Avoid Shaving Your Legs for Two to Four Weeks After the Procedure
Shaving is a no-no for the first two to four weeks after the procedure. The reason? Shaving can cause irritation, bleeding, and even sclerosing solution to spread. Furthermore, it may make you more likely to develop an infection. Lastly, shaving can increase the risk of scarring at the injection site if done too soon after your treatment.
Similarly, don’t use waxing or sugaring during this period. Both methods pull out hair from its roots—and pulling on wound sites could lead to scarring and/or infection (even if they happen sometime down the line).
6. Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Medications
The procedure is designed to reduce inflammation, which can help expedite recovery. Because of this, you will want to avoid anti-inflammatory medications in the first few days following your treatment. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. If you have any questions about which medications are safe for you to take after your procedure, ask your doctor or nurse.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine as well: Both can irritate the site of injection and delay healing time. And finally, smoking or chewing tobacco is not advised because it increases blood flow in your mouth—the opposite of what you want after sclerotherapy!
Conclusion
We hope you find these tips helpful. Remember to be patient when it comes to recovery after sclerotherapy. The best way to avoid complications is by always following your doctor’s recommendations. To learn more about sclerotherapy, visit our website or contact us today!