Spider veins, or "starbursts," are so named because these tiny veins just beneath the skin often radiate out from a central point, like the shape of a spider. They may also appear as fine, separate lines, as a web-like maze, or as "branches" from a single "trunk" of a tree-shaped form. Spider veins can develop on any part of the body, including the face, thighs, calves, and ankles.

Large and thick spider veins are removed by surgery however for tiny spider veins close to the skin surface especially on the face LASER removal is the most effective treatment.

Although their exact cause is unknown, it is known that spider veins are related to abnormal blood flow in the affected veins. Any condition or activity that puts pressure on leg veins (e.g., gaining weight and sitting or standing for long periods of time), can contribute to their development. In women, spider veins often appear during pregnancy. Other contributing factors include sustaining an injury in the affected area, taking medications that affect hormones, such as birth control pills, advanced age, and a family history of spider veins. Spider veins on the nose or face, which typically appear as unsightly red or pink clusters, may also be related to overexposure to the sun.