5 Simple Makeups To Cover Varicose Veins (Spider Veins)

Well, then you should try some makeup to cover the veins. Just as you hide the dark eye circles, fine lines, and scars on the face using a concealer, you can do the same when camouflaging varicose veins.

Are you interested in knowing more? Then keep reading this post!

Keep In Mind

• Tanning Mitt: Apply the tanning product onto the mitt and evenly spread it over your legs to ensure a perfect tan without any patches or streaks.
• BB Cream: Apply BB cream to areas with prominent veins using a blending brush. Stipple and blend it out using quick circular strokes. Follow it up with a shimmer body lotion and set with a hydration spray.
• Color Corrector: Apply a yellow or peach concealer over any visible veins and blend it out. If your skin looks sallow after using the concealer, apply a waterproof concealer that matches your skin tone for a flawless finish.
• Skincare: To soothe varicose veins, apply aloe vera gel on your legs before makeup. Massage it in until absorbed.

It is important to note that while foundation and cover-up cosmetics can help to even out the skin tone and mask minor imperfections such as blemishes and discoloration, they may not be effective for covering large varicose veins. This condition is marked by prominent purple veins and redness. Applying an appropriate tinted moisturizer with an applicator, such as a beauty blender, can help to smooth out your tone and hide any green veins. Learn how to conceal spider veins with makeup to achieve a flawless complexion.

Things You Will Need:

• Body makeup
• Sunless tanning lotion
• Eyeliner makeup brush
• Waterproof concealer
• Makeup sponge
• Airbrush leg sprays
• Color corrector

1. Applying Sunless Tanning Lotion

It is a good idea to exfoliate your legs before applying a sunless tanning lotion. This helps remove dead skin cells and creates a smoother surface, allowing the tanning lotion to absorb more evenly with a streak-free finish. After exfoliating, take a small amount of sunless tanning lotion and spread it over both the legs with your hands. Keep on rubbing gently until all the lotion has completely mixed with the skin and is absorbed. It will take some time for the lotion to dry. Allow it to set and wash your hands well after the application. While choosing a sunless tanning lotion, make sure that you choose a shade that closely matches your skin tone. Too dark can look unnatural, while too light may not provide enough coverage.

This is because sunless tanning lotions work by temporarily darkening the outer layer of the skin through an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. This helps to create a more even skin tone, reducing the contrast between your natural skin and visible veins. Wear your dress after the lotion has dried completely so that it does not stain your dress or create messy patches. You can apply sunless tanning lotion twice a week to maintain a clean look and hide the varicose veins.

Quick Tip

The sunless tanner might dye your palms orange, avoid it by using tanning mitts, rubber gloves, old fuzzy socks, or a cling wrap.

2. Using Body Makeup

Body makeup is thicker in consistency, more pigmented, and designed to be long-lasting and not to transfer. It can effectively mask varicose and spider veins. Consider your undertone while choosing the shade, otherwise, you risk looking ashy and fade.

Take a body makeup bottle with the shade similar to the skin of your legs. After the lotion has dried completely, it is time to apply the body makeup on the legs using a makeup sponge or fingers. Apply a light layer of body makeup over the complete portion of the leg with varicose veins. For example, if the veins are visible on the lower leg, spread the body makeup evenly over the lower portion of the leg up to the knee. Make sure that the edges of the makeup are properly blended using a dabbing motion so that they perfectly gel with your skin. Avoid common makeup mistakes, such as applying too much product or not blending the edges properly, as they can make the coverage appear uneven. Once done, move on to the final step: setting the makeup. Body makeup must be set with a translucent powder for staying power and keeping it in place or from migrating to other areas on the skin.

Rita, a YouTuber, shared her experience of using body makeup to hide blemishes, dark spots, and veins on her legs: “I think [it’s] the body makeup that’s giving me the best results in terms of coverage and in terms of transfer (i).”

Trivia

Just like applying makeup on your face, make sure to apply a primer, preferably with a matte finish, before you use makeup products. Also depending on the color of your veins, use a peach or yellow color corrector.

3. Applying Waterproof Concealer

Now, take a thin eyeliner makeup brush and insert it in the bottle of a waterproof concealer. Make sure that the shade of the concealer is a bit lighter than the body makeup. Also, look for an appropriate color corrector to nail your skin tone perfectly. Take time to learn how to apply concealer properly to achieve flawless coverage. Color correction is needed before applying any concealer that blends with the skin tone. Peach or salmon tones work well for bluish veins, while yellow helps counteract purplish veins.  Some concealers need to be made with enough coverage to cancel out dark areas without neutralization, although these products are being phased out. Cover the varicose veins by applying concealer in a thin line.

4. Blending The Concealer

Just as the body makeup, it is important to blend the concealer properly into the skin. Use the makeup sponge or your finger to dab the concealer lightly so that it blends well with the skin. Knowing how to choose the right concealer shade is essential for achieving a flawless finish that matches your skin tone. Make sure the concealer is blended effectively so that you cannot see the varicose veins at all. Set the makeup with a translucent powder for staying power and keeping it in place or from migrating to other areas on the skin.

5. Aerosol Leg-Spray For Smaller Veins

In case you have varicose veins that are not prominent at all, you can skip the makeup part and simply use an aerosol leg spray to cover them. You will find this product sold under the category of airbrush legs. They are fantastic for superficial discolorations because they contain light-diffusing pigments that diffuse imperfections. These are sheer, with buildable coverage that’s amazing for small spider veins but inadequate for large varicose veins. First, spray it on the area with the varicose veins, and gently make smaller circles with your fingers to blend it into the skin. Let it dry well before getting dressed. Heavy body makeup does not feel like airbrush leg sprays on the skin because this is so lightweight and natural.

While makeup offers a quick and effective way to cover visible veins, long-term solutions, and alternative methods can help reduce their appearance or address the underlying causes. If you are looking for more permanent or preventative approaches, scroll through the next section. 

Effective Long-Term Solutions For Varicose Veins

While makeup provides a quick fix to cover varicose veins, there are other ways to treat visible veins. For those who are interested in a more permanent solution, there are several treatments and lifestyle changes that can help minimize the appearance of visible veins over time. Take a look at these:

1. Compression Stockings

These stockings apply pressure to the legs, enhancing blood flow, and thereby reducing symptoms associated with varicose veins. Though they do not treat the disease, they relieve discomfort and halt the progression. 

2. Sclerotherapy

This is the process of introducing a solution into the varicose veins directly to cause them to scar and close. It is useful for small veins and can be performed in an outpatient setting. 

3. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

EVLA or endovenous laser ablation is a minimally invasive procedure by which the energy of laser can be used to close the varicose veins. It does improve circulation and reduces symptoms without much pain during recovery.

4. ClariVein

ClariVein is a minimally invasive, mechanical chemical method that uses a catheter to close varicose veins. It’s very fast, does not utilize heat or big incisions, and is relatively painless with little time off for recovery. It is an effective treatment for larger varicose veins. 

5. Radiofrequency Ablation/VenaSeal

This method uses a medical adhesive to seal off problematic veins without heat. It is considered less invasive and has minimal recovery time.

6. Lifestyle Changes

Regular physical activity enhances blood flow and strengthens the muscles in the legs, which can help alleviate symptoms. Elevating the legs reduces swelling and discomfort by promoting venous return. Maintaining a healthy weight and a diet high in fiber can prevent constipation, which may exacerbate vein problems. 

Each of these treatments has to be personalized according to individual needs, symptoms, and medical history. Whether you choose professional treatments, home remedies, or simple lifestyle changes, consistency is key. The right approach can help you achieve long-lasting results, so you can feel confident in your skin.

Infographic: 5 Makeup Steps To Cover Varicose Veins

If the gnarled veins are stopping you from wearing your favorite dress then we have a solution for you! The usual stuff from your makeup kit can double up to cover your spider veins. Check out the infographic to conceal the veins and flaunt your fabulous legs.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What color concealer covers blue veins?

Yellow or peach concealer covers blue veins as they complement the blue color and neutralize it better.

Does spray tan cover veins?

A spray tan may not cover veins fully. You can opt for color correctors.

How can I have the makeup to cover veins last all day?

Apply a primer before the makeup application and set it with a setting spray or powder to make it last longer.

How can I remove the makeup to cover veins without causing irritation to my skin?

You can rub some baby oil or a lotion to remove your makeup before washing it out. This process keeps your skin moisturized, and allows you to wash off all the makeup using a gentle body wash or cleanser.

Learn how to cover varicose veins with makeup and look beautiful! Find the best beauty tips to hide those veins and look stunning in the video below.

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Madison WilliamsPermanent Makeup Artist

   

Madison has 4 years of experience and is a certified Permanent Makeup Artist with a passion and love for all things makeup. She is based in Maryland, better known as the DMV. She specializes in makeup application, cosmetic tattooing, and various brow shaping services.

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Nisha is a contributor to StyleCraze and has 3 years of experience in content writing for different genres. She is a makeup aficionado and combines her love for makeup and writing to provide her readers with the latest information in the beauty world.

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