Tanning is fun but can sometimes be harmful to us! So, people wonder “how long after sclerotherapy can I tan.” Let’s answer that below!
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive non-surgical treatment procedure where a medical professional injects a solution called a Sclerosant into the blood vessels or lymph vessels which initially causes the vein to scar, allowing the blood to flow through healthier veins. It is frequently used to treat varicose veins, also known as spider veins. Varicose veins usually present as a swelling or a bulge with a reddish-blue hue in the lower limbs due to chronic venous insufficiency. If left untreated, varicose veins can result in pain, cramping, itching, burning sensation, and discoloration. After performing this procedure, the veins fade within few weeks or a month. Sclerotherapy is also used to treat other conditions like Hemorrhoids, Malformed lymph vessels, and Hydrocele.
Post-Sclerotherapy Symptoms
- Pigmentation
- Bruising
- Matting
- Skin Numbness
- Ulceration
- Erythema
- Phlebitis
How Long After Sclerotherapy Can I Tan?
After sclerotherapy, it is common to experience bruising and discoloration, which will resolve in few weeks. You must avoid exposure to direct sunlight and stay out of the tanning bed because over-exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation of the treated areas. To avoid it, you can use broad-spectrum sun protection creams with SPF>50 for a month after the procedure and use protective clothing. You can get tanned after a month of getting sclerotherapy to avoid skin complications.
Home Remedies for Varicose Veins
1. Exercise
Regular exercise boosts better blood circulation in the lower limbs, which eases blood flow in the veins. Exercise also helps reduce blood pressure which is also a contributing factor. Low impact exercises like swimming, walking, cycling, and yoga activate the calf muscles without too much strain. Also, avoid sitting in the same position for a prolonged time.
2. Compression Stockings
Compression stockings act by applying adequate pressure to the legs, which causes the muscles and the veins to force the blood towards the heart. It is commercially available in pharmacies and online stores.
3. Dietary Changes
Avoid salty or sodium-rich foods from the diet, which can cause water retention in the body. Whereas including foods high in potassium like nuts, lentils, potatoes, leafy vegetables, fish is beneficial to reduce water retention.
4. Eat More Flavonoids
Intake of foods with flavonoids like onions, bell peppers, spinach, citrus fruits, apples, cocoa, and garlic helps to improve blood circulation preventing the pooling of blood. They also help reduce blood pressure in the vessels, which in turn reduces varicose veins.
Grape seed extract, which is rich in Vitamin E and flavonoids, helps treat the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency. Do not take it if you are under medication, as they tend to react with blood thinners.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a quick home remedy for treating varicose veins. You can either apply it directly with light massage on the affected area or consume it by mixing a tablespoon in a glass of warm water. It helps to cleanse the body and improves circulation.
6. Other Effective Remedies
- Wear loose clothing to help the body breathe and for better blood flow.
- Raise your legs to the level of your heart to improve circulation and ease the pain.
- Gently massage the varicose veins with oil or moisturizer to can keep the blood flowing through the vessels.
- Avoid applying direct pressure on the veins.
Precautions
Sclerotherapy is not advised for pregnant women, lactating moms, large varicose veins, history of blood clots, and bedridden patients.
Conclusion
Sclerotherapy is very effective for small varicose veins, and you can see definitive results in about 3-6 weeks, while large veins may take longer. Make sure to visit the doctor for follow-up sessions after the procedure for better results.