Published on 22 May 2025
Considering ThermaVein® treatment for your cosmetic vein condition but concerned about the recovery? Our Private GP and thread vein specialist, Dr George Taggart, provides you with actionable aftercare tips for an efficient recovery, so you can make the most of your new and improved skin. Read on for his guidance.
What will my skin look like straight after ThermaVein®?
After your 30-minute ThermaVein® treatment in which a very small, single-use probe is used to deliver a microburst of thermal energy to seal the problem veins, you’ll be discharged from hospital to begin your recovery.
Following your treatment, you will notice fading of the thread veins, the skin will feel warm and have redness, but both reactions should subside quickly, although individual reactions can differ based on skin sensitivity. There is an immediate inflammatory reaction, which in the majority lasts one to three days, sometimes a week, very rarely two to three weeks.
In the days following the procedure, the treated area may feel dry, and small crusts, also known as micro crusting, may form as the body begins to absorb the sealed veins. This is usually resolved within a week. Some of the thread veins will reappear and further treatment is almost always required. Subsequent treatments are one month apart.
Top seven ThermaVein® aftercare tips
1. Aloe vera: Immediately after treatment, aloe vera gel will be applied to the treated area of skin. Once home, it’s recommended you apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the treated area twice a day for the first few days to help soothe the skin
2. Skincare: When washing your face, use only water in the first 24-hours and avoid harsh cleansing, exfoliation, massage or steaming of your skin. Gentle cleansers and calming products for skin are advised for your skincare routine. Any perfumed, acid or alcohol-based products shouldn’t be used on the affected area for one week post treatment
3. Make up: Refrain from wearing makeup up to two days post-treatment. It can be worn after 24 hours if necessary
4. Heat: Avoid sources of intense heat such as saunas, hot tubs, sunbathing, hot wax treatments and swimming for a week after your treatment to reduce flushing of the skin
5. Diet: For the first 24 hours after ThermaVein® you should avoid drinking alcohol and eating hot, spicy food, as this can cause facial flushing. This is often advice given to anyone struggling with rosacea – a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face
6. Exercise: Avoid vigorous exercise, as this can cause sweating and dilation of the capillaries (delicate blood vessels throughout your body)
7. UV rays: Keep away from direct sun exposure and sunbeds for one to two weeks following your treatment and continue to apply SPF 30 (preferably higher) daily. This helps to prevent the appearance of any further thread veins
How soon will my ThermaVein® follow-up be?
If additional treatments are necessary, particularly for veins on your face, it is recommended to wait at least 28 days before proceeding with another session.
Book to see a veins specialist
Choose Benenden Hospital for your private vein treatment:
- England’s largest provider of veins removal
- More than 1,000 veins procedures carried out each year
- Treatment in under 30 minutes in a calm, welcoming environment
- Highly experienced and renowned Consultant Vascular Surgeon and thread vein specialist
- Finance payment plans available
There are many ways to book and pay for your vein treatment journey – from self-paying to going through a private medical insurer or taking advantage of our payment plans.
It couldn’t be easier to book your initial consultation with our Vascular Surgeon – just use our online booking tool.
If you need more information on our varicose vein treatments, complete our online enquiry form, contact us using Livechat or call our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.