

A recent study conducted by Boston University’s Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine has brought attention to the effects of sclerotherapy, particularly in people of color. The study found that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is more commonly experienced by patients with darker skin tones following sclerotherapy, a procedure often used to treat varicose and spider veins.
However, the research, now published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, also confirms that when performed correctly, sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for patients of all skin types. The findings emphasize the importance of proper technique and care during the procedure to minimize the risk of PIH, especially in individuals with higher melanin levels.
This study underscores the need for dermatologists and vein specialists to be particularly mindful of the risk of hyperpigmentation in people of color while reinforcing that sclerotherapy remains a viable option for everyone.