Pycnogenol, a branded natural extract from French maritime bark, improved healing and reduced skin discoloration in patients following sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive procedure used to manage primary superficial veins, commonly known as spider veins, according to a study published in Minerva Therapy.
 
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a chemical solution directly into the vein, causing the vein walls to swell, stick together, and seal shut to stop the flow of blood. Skin discoloration is a common side effect.
 
In the study, researchers investigated whether Pycnogenol could have a greater effect on skin discoloration compared to standard management, in 161 women who received sclerotherapy for spider veins. 84 participants took 150 mg of Pycnogenol daily starting the day before the sclerotherapy and continued for 12 weeks alongside standard management. The remaining 77 participants only received standard management, serving as a control group.
 
Researchers assessed skin discoloration using a standard scoring system which goes on a scale of 0-3, and found that the Pycnogenol group had a significantly lower average score (0.4±0.2) compared to the control group (2.1±0.4).
 
There were significantly fewer discolorations per treated vein in the Pycnogenol group at 3.81% (16 stains/420 vein segments) than in the control group with 8.58% (37 stains/431 vein segments) observing a number of stains per vein segment.
 
“Spider veins can affect individuals of all ages but are particularly prevalent among women over 50 and those who have recently been pregnant,” said Dr. Fred Pescatore, author, natural physician, and spokesperson for Pycnogenol. “While spider veins are generally not a health risk, they often pose a cosmetic concern for many women. This study emphasizes the importance of addressing skin discoloration after sclerotherapy for women’s skin health, beauty, and confidence. Pycnogenol not only helps prevent discoloration but also offers a potential enhancement to one’s skincare routine, providing a radiant glow as the summer months approach.
 
“The study’s findings indicate a remarkable reduction in skin discoloration among participants who supplemented with Pycnogenol compared to those who received standard management alone. These results open up new possibilities for Pycnogenol in skincare, highlighting its potential to enhance skin health and beauty in a safe, natural way.”