Niacin is well known for bringing out vascularity, not a fan of the flush effects though.
As a vasodialator, it allows the blood vessels to relax, and thereby enlarge, and the blood to flow more freely - making you look more vascular.
I find that heat works as well because it's the body's natural method of staying cool.
As the body heats up, the blood vessels naturally come closer to the surface to allow the circulating blood to radiate heat through the skin. Its why alot of guys stay covered up until a few mins before a show - enhance vascularity to the maximum.
But like you said bro - doesn't make up for high body fat (and poor carb loads).