Spider Naevi

What are Spider Naevi?

Spider naevi (also called spider angiomas or spider telangiectasias) are small, visible blood vessels that spread out from a central red spot, resembling a spider’s web. They are usually harmless but may sometimes indicate an underlying health condition, especially if they appear in large numbers.

Causes

Spider naevi occur when small blood vessels (capillaries) dilate close to the skin surface. Common causes include:

Physiological factors

Common in children and young adults

Pregnancy (due to hormonal changes, particularly oestrogen)

Medical conditions

Chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis)

High oestrogen levels

Thyroid disease

Lifestyle factors

Sun exposure

Excessive alcohol use

Symptoms / Signs

Red central spot with fine blood vessels radiating outward

Blanching (fades temporarily) when pressed with a finger

Most common on the face, neck, upper chest, arms, and hands

Usually painless, but some may cause slight burning or sensitivity

Treatments

Professional Treatments

Laser therapy (vascular laser or IPL) – destroys abnormal blood vessels safely

Electrocautery – uses heat to seal off blood vessels

Treatment of underlying cause – e.g., managing liver disease or hormonal imbalance

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At-Home / Supportive Care

Avoid excessive sun exposure

Use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily

Limit alcohol consumption

Gentle skincare to avoid further irritation

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Prevention

Protect skin from UV damage (sunscreen, hats, shade)

Avoid excessive alcohol intake

Maintain healthy liver function

Manage hormonal balance if relevant

Regular skin checks if you are at risk

FAQs

Q1. Are spider naevi dangerous?
Usually no – they are often harmless. But multiple lesions may be a sign of liver disease and should be assessed by a doctor.

Q2. Will they go away on their own?
Sometimes – in children and during pregnancy, they often fade naturally. Otherwise, they may persist without treatment.

Q3. Do spider naevi mean I have liver disease?
Not necessarily – a single or few spider naevi are common. But widespread spider naevi can indicate cirrhosis or liver issues, so medical evaluation is important.

Q4. Can skincare creams remove spider naevi?
No – topical creams cannot remove them. Only laser or medical procedures are effective.

Q5. Is treatment permanent?
Yes, treated spider naevi usually don’t return, though new ones can develop if triggers (sun, liver disease, hormones) persist.