Reticular veins are small, blue or green dilated veins that appear 1 mm to 3 mm in diameter in areas such as the legs and the face.6 These common veins are typically smaller than varicose veins but larger than spider veins and appear flatter and less twisted. When such reticular veins are associated with spider veins, they are called “feeder veins.”

Like spider veins and varicose veins, reticular veins are caused by weak or damaged valves in the veins. Blood can pool in the affected area and cause the dilated veins to appear beneath the skin.

Reticular veins are often accompanied by significant symptoms of local tenderness or burning and itching.