Cherry angiomas are common, benign skin growths composed of clusters of tiny blood vessels that appear close to the skin’s surface. These growths typically present as small, bright-red spots, though they can range in color from purple to blue. While medically harmless, many individuals seek removal for cosmetic reasons or if the lesions are irritated or prone to bleeding. Before considering any treatment option, consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis, ensuring the red spot is indeed a cherry angioma and not a more serious skin condition.
Understanding Cherry Angiomas
A cherry angioma is a type of vascular tumor resulting from the benign proliferation of endothelial cells lining the inside of blood vessels. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, these lesions are the most common type of angioma and are strongly linked to the aging process. They are frequently referred to as senile angiomas because they begin to appear in most people starting around age 30.
Prevalence increases dramatically with age, with nearly 75% of adults over 75 having multiple cherry angiomas. Genetic factors also play a significant role, suggesting a hereditary predisposition. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, can also trigger their appearance, though these often resolve spontaneously. These growths are not associated with an increased risk of skin cancer or malignancy.
Professional Removal Procedures
For safe and effective removal, dermatologists employ several techniques that target the vascular nature of the growth. The choice of method depends on the angioma’s size, location, and whether it is flat or raised. A medical professional will typically apply a local anesthetic to the area before any procedure to minimize discomfort.
Electrocauterization
Electrocauterization involves using a small probe that delivers a controlled electrical current to the angioma, generating heat. This heat destroys the blood vessels within the lesion and seals them off. The procedure is quick, and a scab will typically form over the treated area within one to two days, which then sheds naturally over the following five to ten days. While highly effective, this method carries a small risk of leaving behind a minor, often pale, scar.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery utilizes liquid nitrogen to freeze the angioma, destroying the tissue through extreme cold. A medical professional applies the liquid nitrogen using a cotton swab or a specialized spray device. This freezing process causes the lesion to blister or peel, eventually falling off. The treated area generally heals within seven to ten days, and this method is often favored for its low potential for scarring.
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) Treatment
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) therapy is used for treating vascular lesions because it specifically targets the hemoglobin inside the blood vessels. The laser emits a burst of light that is absorbed by the red pigment, heating and collapsing the capillaries without damaging the surrounding skin. This precise method typically requires only one or two sessions, though larger or deeper angiomas may need more. Patients may experience mild bruising or temporary redness after treatment, but the risk of scarring is very low.
Shave Excision
For cherry angiomas that are larger or raised above the skin’s surface, a shave excision may be the recommended approach. This technique involves using a sterile, sharp blade to carefully shave the growth flush with the surrounding skin. A local anesthetic is injected before the procedure to numb the area. Following the removal, electrocautery may be applied to the base of the excision to stop any bleeding. This method is effective for prominent lesions but has a higher potential for a small scar or a slight depression compared to laser methods.
At-Home Removal Methods and Safety Warnings
Attempting to remove a cherry angioma at home is strongly discouraged by medical professionals due to significant safety risks. Common suggested home remedies, such as applying apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or iodine, lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. These topical applications are more likely to cause skin irritation, chemical burns, or dermatitis.
More concerning are attempts at physical removal, such as scraping, tying off, or cutting the angioma. Because cherry angiomas are dense clusters of capillaries, self-removal can result in excessive bleeding that is difficult to control. Furthermore, any non-sterile procedure significantly increases the risk of a severe skin infection, which can lead to permanent and noticeable scarring. The most serious warning is the danger of misdiagnosing a nodular melanoma or another malignant lesion as a benign cherry angioma, delaying professional diagnosis and treatment.
What to Expect After Removal
Following a professional removal procedure, the recovery process is generally straightforward, though it varies slightly depending on the technique used. Immediately after treatment, it is common to experience mild redness, swelling, or a slight stinging sensation at the site. For heat-based methods like electrocauterization, a protective crust or scab will form over the next 24 to 36 hours.
This scab is a natural part of the healing process and should be left undisturbed to fall off naturally, typically within seven to fourteen days. Complete healing of the underlying skin may take up to 30 days or longer, especially for larger excisions. Aftercare instructions usually include keeping the area clean with a gentle cleanser and protecting it from sun exposure to minimize pigment change or scarring. While the treated angioma will not return, new cherry angiomas may still develop elsewhere on the body in the future due to underlying genetic and aging factors.