Are Your Varicose Veins Causing a Skin Rash?

Medically reviewed by Thomas Militano, MD, PhD, RPVI, on March 13, 2025

Varicose veins are typically associated with visible, twisted, and bulging veins. If left untreated, they can cause serious complications, as many people are unaware of how the condition contributes to uncomfortable skin issues such as eczema and venous ulcers.

For this blog, we consulted with Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein specialist Thomas Militano, MD, PhD, RPVI, who discusses the connection between varicose veins and skin rashes, the specific skin issues that form because of varicose veins, and potential treatment options to manage both the veins and the skin conditions they influence.

If you’re managing symptoms of vein disease and skin problems, let CVR help provide answers and treatment options. Call 240-965-3915 or visit our SCHEDULING PORTAL to book a consultation at a CVR vein clinic near you.

How Do Varicose Veins Lead to Skin Rashes?

Varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling and, in severe cases, lead to complications such as blood clots. We mentioned that one lesser-known complication of varicose veins is the development of skin rashes or other dermal conditions.

Why?

Over time, poor circulation and increased vein pressure can affect the skin's health, leading to changes in its appearance and texture.

Blood flow issues also hinder the skin's ability to heal, causing chronic rashes and other skin issues. The connection between varicose veins and skin conditions is complex, affecting both the veins and overall circulatory health.

Skin Problems Linked to Varicose Veins

Several skin conditions may develop because of varicose veins and circulatory complications, including:

Venous Dermatitis
Venous dermatitis, or stasis dermatitis, is a common skin rash linked to varicose veins. It typically appears as red, inflamed, and itchy patches of skin, often around the ankles and lower legs. Venous dermatitis occurs when poor blood flow and fluid accumulation in the tissues prevent the skin from receiving adequate nutrients and oxygen, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, dryness, and sores.

If left untreated, venous dermatitis can worsen, causing dry, cracked skin and potentially open sores. Again, the rash results from poor circulation, where blood pools in the veins and causes fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation that affects both the appearance and health of the skin.

Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can occur in individuals with varicose veins, especially in areas where the skin is already compromised by venous insufficiency. It causes redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, and in severe cases, it can lead to fever and chills. According to the Mayo Clinic, cellulitis can spread deeper into the skin and bloodstream without prompt treatment, leading to serious complications.

People with varicose veins may be more susceptible to cellulitis due to poor circulation and skin fragility. These conditions create an environment where bacteria can enter through small cracks or wounds. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial to prevent further infection.

Eczema
Eczema is another condition that may appear in people with varicose veins, particularly in areas where venous dermatitis is already present. Like venous dermatitis, eczema can cause the skin to become inflamed, red, and itchy. In severe cases, it can lead to thickened skin and the formation of scabs or crusts.

While eczema can develop independently of varicose veins, venous insufficiency and circulation problems can make eczema worse or more difficult to treat. The reduced blood flow and poor skin hydration make the skin more prone to flare-ups.

Lipodermatosclerosis
Lipodermatosclerosis occurs when the skin, typically around the lower legs and ankles, hardens and thickens. It may happen when venous insufficiency causes long-term pressure on the veins. The skin can tighten, swell, and become discolored, leading to an appearance of “stagnant” skin.

According to the Primary Care Dermatology Society, this condition is often associated with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, though obesity is also a common factor. Over time, lipodermatosclerosis can progress, leading to further complications, including skin ulcers or open wounds.

Venous Ulcers
Venous ulcers are open sores that develop on the skin, most often near the ankles. These ulcers result from chronic venous insufficiency, as poor circulation prevents the skin from repairing itself. As varicose veins continue to worsen, the skin becomes more vulnerable to breakage, leading to the formation of ulcers.

While venous ulcers are not technically a rash, they are a severe form of skin damage that can result from untreated varicose veins and venous dermatitis, often needing treatment with a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Your doctor will discuss this with you.

Treatment Options for Skin Rashes Caused by Varicose Veins

Managing a skin problem related to varicose veins requires a multi-faceted approach. The key to effective treatment is addressing both the varicose veins and the skin condition that arises. Your physician will customize a treatment plan based on your needs, which may include:

• Sclerotherapy and Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): Sclerotherapy or endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) can be highly effective in treating the underlying cause of varicose veins. Both treatments aim to close off the affected veins, improving blood flow and alleviating the pressure that leads to skin rashes and other complications. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the vein, while EVLT uses a laser to treat the affected veins.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This is an effective treatment for varicose veins, targeting the underlying cause of venous insufficiency. An office-based procedure, it uses thermal energy delivered through a catheter to heat and seal off the affected vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
• Compression Therapy: A proven treatment for individuals with varicose veins and venous insufficiency, medical-grade compression stockings help boost circulation by applying gentle pressure to the legs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this pressure can reduce swelling and alleviate pain while preventing the worsening of venous dermatitis and helping to manage symptoms of eczema or lipodermatosclerosis.
• Medical Glue: A modern treatment for varicose veins that works by sealing off the affected vein with a specially formulated adhesive. This procedure prevents blood from pooling in the damaged vein, allowing it to be naturally absorbed by the body over time. By improving circulation and reducing venous pressure, medical glue can effectively relieve symptoms like swelling, discomfort, and skin irritation.
  
  Unlike thermal treatments, medical glue does not require local anesthesia, making it a comfortable and efficient option for many patients.
  
  
• Topical Treatments: A physician may recommend topical treatments, such as corticosteroid creams, to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. These treatments can help manage venous dermatitis and eczema flare-ups to provide temporary relief from itching, redness, and discomfort, but it’s essential to use them under the supervision of a healthcare provider to avoid side effects.
• Leg Elevation and Exercise: Elevating the legs and engaging in regular exercise can improve circulation, reduce swelling, and help manage symptoms of venous insufficiency.
• Skin Care: Proper skin care is crucial for individuals with varicose veins and associated rashes. Moisturizing regularly can help prevent dryness and cracking, and avoiding harsh soaps and chemicals can protect the skin from further irritation. If ulcers or sores have developed, your expert CVR physician can provide recommendations regarding wound care.

CVR Offers a Comprehensive Approach to Varicose Vein Treatment

Poor circulation and increased pressure on the veins often cause skin issues, including venous dermatitis, eczema, lipodermatosclerosis, and venous ulcers. These conditions can affect the skin’s health over time. Patients can significantly improve their symptoms and quality of life by seeking treatment for varicose veins and the skin conditions they’ve caused.

CVR’s comprehensive approach combines minimally invasive treatments and lifestyle changes that can lead to better circulation, healthier skin, and relief from the uncomfortable rashes that often accompany varicose veins. Our physicians coordinate a customized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms.

If you're experiencing skin rashes or other varicose vein complications, it's essential to consult with a CVR vein care physician who can help design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. With the right care, you can effectively manage both the veins and the skin problems they cause. Don’t wait a moment longer to receive the compassionate care you deserve.

Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.