Laser therapy involves the use of light energy to shrink or close superficial veins, usually 2 mm or less. There are multiple types of laser that can be utilized, however the most effective and safe lasers are those that are designed for the target (treatment area) the medical professional is trying to treat. For veins hemoglobin and water are the 2 primary targets. Each of these components of blood has specific wavelengths of light absorptions. The laser is chosen to be as close to the wavelength to cause the target to absorb the light energy and limit energy absorption to surrounding structures. This allows optimum treatment with limited risk of damage to surrounding tissue.

On spider complexes laser is best used with sclerotherapy. The laser will treat the very fine vessels thus limiting the amount of sclerotherapy needed, however, sclerotherapy is still the principle treatment modality. Rarely is laser alone effective for long term management of spider veins.

Facial veins, rosacea, and fine veins on the neck and chest caused by sun damage respond very well to laser treatment alone.