Skip to main content

Why Do My Veins Appear to Be So Blue Under My Skin? | UVVC

Why are my veins so blue? 

In general, the reason why veins are so blue is because of the way light wavelengths reflect off of them underneath the layers of the skin. Veins seem bluer the closer they are to the skin, like the veins on your wrists. They’re not actually blue under your skin, but they definitely appear that way.  

What factors cause veins to appear blue? 

  • Clothes that are too tight on your skin — Wearing pants, shirts or other clothing that constricts your limbs can sometimes cause your veins to appear suddenly under your skin, which is why blue veins may be more apparent. 
  • Exposure to the sun — Sunlight can often increase the visibility of veins under the skin. This is one reason why your veins may suddenly appear so blue when you go outside. 
  • Standing for a long period — When you stand up for long periods of time, the blood may pool in your legs and feet due to poor circulation, which may then put added pressure on the veins in your lower limbs. This pressure may be a reason why your veins look so blue in some cases. 

 What does this have to do with venous disease? 

Veins can also appear bluer the closer to the skin they are. Veins that are close to the surface of the skin are a symptom that chronic venous insufficiency patients frequently deal with. If you notice that your veins are blue and they seem to be rising up under your skin, you may want to consult with a specialist who can help treat your condition. 

Contact United Vein & Vascular Centers for your venous disease treatments 

You don’t have to continue worrying about symptoms of vein conditions that are making your life more difficult. Our vein specialists at United Vein & Vascular Centers are here to help you. Each of our team members understands the uncertainty and discomfort that vein problems can lead to, and that’s why they’re committed to helping you better understand your condition, your symptoms and the options you can use to address them.  

Our specialists can also help you find the most effective treatment option for your vein condition and include it in a comprehensive treatment plan that’s designed to:  

  • Reduce your symptoms. 
  • Improve your ability to walk and perform other normal daily tasks.  
  • Increase your overall quality of life.  

Contact us today to learn more about your vein condition and the ways it can be treated or to set up an initial appointment.