Spider veins are unsightly and painful but can be removed by medical procedures. "For smaller veins, the treatment of choice is injection treatments," says Dr. Ousaima Al-Misky, Vein Treatment Center. "We inject a mild, chemical solution into the vein so it can irritate the vein, allowing it to close down."

One patient says after having her first treatment 10 days ago, she noticed a difference immediately. "I had no problems going to the beach, but I didn't feel comfortable wearing shorts in the summer," says Kerri Davidson. "I'll be wearing shorts this summer," she adds with a smile.

Good Housekeeping says there are also some exercises you can do to control and even prevent spider veins. "Staying active helps to improve your cardiovascular system," explains Kim Daly, beauty writer, Good Housekeeping. "Even small movements like stretching up like a ballerina while you're standing in line or waiting for an elevator can help.

"And when it comes to sitting, crossing your legs actually cuts off circulation. Instead, you want to sit with both feet on the floor."

What about over-the-counter creams that say they reduce the size and appearance of veins? "Unfortunately, creams that contain vitamin K don't necessarily reduce the appearance of leg veins," says Daly. "One cream that does show some promise is Avon's Anew Spider Vein Therapy. It was shown in Avon studies to reduce the appearance of spider veins by up to 50 percent after eight weeks."

A final note: Good Housekeeping says that in-office spider vein treatments such as lasers and sclerotherapy typically cost between $300 and $800 per treatment. To learn more, check out the June issue of Good Housekeeping or visit www.goodhousekeeping.com.