Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas can appear anywhere on the body but are most often found on the trunk, chest, shoulders, arms, and scalp.

Cherry angiomas, sometimes called “red moles” or “Campbell de Morgan spots,” are small, benign growths made up of clusters of tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin. They are extremely common and tend to increase in number as we age. While harmless, many people choose to have them treated for cosmetic reasons or because they occasionally catch on clothing or, rarely, bleed.

At Derma Reading, we offer safe, precise, and effective removal of cherry angiomas and other vascular lesions using advanced laser technology such as the Excel V+, a vascular laser by Cutera. This state-of-the-art vascular laser allows our dermatologists to target abnormal or dilated blood vessels with pinpoint accuracy, treating the lesion while leaving the surrounding skin intact.

Cherry angiomas can appear anywhere on the body but are most often found on the trunk, chest, shoulders, arms, and scalp.. They can vary in size from a pinhead to several millimetres across, appearing bright red, purple, or sometimes dark blue. Although they are non-cancerous and generally symptom-free, many patients feel self-conscious about their appearance — particularly when lesions occur on visible areas like the face or neck.

Laser removal offers an elegant solution: quick, comfortable, and with minimal downtime.

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Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas, sometimes called “red moles” or “Campbell de Morgan spots,” are small, benign growths made up of clusters of tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin.

They are extremely common and tend to increase in number as we age. While harmless, many people choose to have them treated for cosmetic reasons or because they occasionally catch on clothing or, rarely, bleed.

Symptoms of Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas are easy to recognise once you know what to look for.

They typically appear as small, dome-shaped papules that are bright red, crimson, or purplish in colour. The lesions may be flat initially but often become raised over time. When pressed, they can temporarily blanch (turn pale) because the blood inside the tiny vessels is displaced.

They are usually:

Small: usually 1–5 mm in diameter, though some can be larger.
Smooth or slightly raised: the surface is shiny and firm.
Painless: they rarely itch or hurt.
Stable: they may slowly increase in size or number but do not spread aggressively.
Occasionally bleed: if scratched or rubbed.

In addition to cherry angiomas, patients may notice other vascular lesions such as spider veins (telangiectasia), spider angiomas, or angiokeratomas. All share an underlying dilation of small blood vessels and often respond well to vascular-targeted lasers like Excel V+.

Causes of Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas are benign. They are not contagious, not cancerous, and not related to melanoma or skin cancer.

The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not completely understood, but research suggests they are related to ageing and vascular proliferation — in other words, the gradual formation of small new blood vessels within the skin.

Several factors may contribute:

Genetics: there is often a hereditary tendency; they may run in families.
Age: they commonly appear after age 30 and increase steadily over time.
Hormonal changes: pregnancy and hormonal fluctuations can occasionally trigger new lesions.
Sun exposure: ultraviolet light may promote the development of superficial vascular changes.
Skin trauma: repeated rubbing or minor injury to the skin can stimulate local vessel growth.
Certain chemicals or conditions: though rare, some studies link angiomas to topical bromide exposure or metabolic factors.

It’s important to emphasise that cherry angiomas are benign. They are not contagious, not cancerous, and not related to melanoma or skin cancer. Treatment is therefore optional and performed mainly for aesthetic or comfort reasons.

Treatment of Cherry Angiomas at Derma

At Derma Reading, cherry angioma treatment is led by consultant dermatologists who will first confirm the diagnosis to rule out other vascular or pigmented lesions. Once confirmed, the treatment options will be discussed and if appropriate, can usually be performed on the same day or during a follow-up session.

Excel V+ Laser

Our gold-standard approach for removing cherry angiomas is the Excel V+ laser. This advanced dual-wavelength laser (532 nm KTP and 1064 nm Nd:YAG) targets haemoglobin within the blood vessels of the angioma. The absorbed energy gently heats and coagulates these vessels, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. The lesion fades gradually over the next one to three weeks.

The Excel V+’s built-in cooling technology protects the skin and keeps the treatment comfortable. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snap or brief warmth. No anaesthetic is typically required, and there is little or no downtime.

A single treatment often suffices for smaller angiomas. For larger or more vascular lesions, a second session may be recommended four to six weeks later. The results are permanent for the treated spot, although new angiomas can appear elsewhere over time.

Electrocautery (Thermocoagulation)

For some lesions, a fine electric current can be used to heat and destroy the blood vessels. This method is effective but slightly less precise than laser therapy and may involve a higher risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation changes or tiny surface marks.

Cryotherapy

Freezing with liquid nitrogen can be used for very small angiomas, though this technique can lead to temporary pigment change or blistering, so it is less commonly chosen for visible areas.

Surgical Removal

For raised or larger angiomas, a shave or excision procedure under local anaesthetic may be performed. While this guarantees immediate removal, it requires wound care and carries a small risk of scarring.

Your dermatologist will explain the pros and cons of each method and advise which approach is most suitable for your skin type and goals.

Aftercare and Recovery

After treatment, the skin may appear slightly red or swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. Occasionally, the angioma may darken or form a light crust that falls away naturally within a few days. It is important not to pick or scratch the area.

You should:

Keep the area clean and dry for 24 hours.
Avoid harsh skincare products or exfoliation for several days.
Apply SPF 30+ daily, especially if the area is exposed.
Avoid sunbeds or tanning for at least two weeks.
Refrain from hot baths, saunas, or vigorous exercise for 24 hours.

Most patients return to normal routines immediately. Make-up can usually be applied the next day if needed. The treated area will gradually fade, leaving clear skin behind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cherry angiomas dangerous?

No. Cherry angiomas are completely benign. They are formed from overgrown capillaries in the skin and have no malignant potential. Removal is purely cosmetic or to prevent irritation.

Does laser removal hurt?

Excel V+ laser treatment is very tolerable. Most people describe a light snap or warm sensation that lasts a fraction of a second per pulse. Cooling from the laser handpiece keeps discomfort minimal.

How long does recovery take?

There is little to no downtime. Minor redness usually resolves within a few hours. Any small crusting heals within a week. You can return to work or social activities immediately.

Will the angioma return?

Once treated successfully, the same angioma should not return. However, because angiomas are influenced by age and genetics, new ones may appear elsewhere over time.

How many treatments will I need?

In most cases, a single session is enough. Larger or thicker angiomas may need more treatments for full clearance.

Is laser safe for all skin types?

Yes, but the settings must be adjusted appropriately. At Derma Reading, our clinicians will personalise the laser parameters for each patient to ensure both efficacy and safety across all skin tones.

Is there any scarring or pigment change?

The risk is low, especially with Excel V+. In rare cases, temporary light or dark spots can occur, particularly in darker skin tones or if aftercare instructions are not followed. These usually fade with time.

Why choose Derma Reading?

At Derma Reading, you’ll be treated by consultant dermatologists experienced in both medical and aesthetic laser procedures. Our clinic is CQC-registered, fully equipped with the latest Cutera Excel V+ system, and adheres to strict laser-safety protocols.

We understand that even small lesions can affect confidence. Whether you have a single angioma or multiple spots you’d like removed, our dermatology team will guide you through every step — from diagnosis to aftercare — with care and clarity.

If cherry angiomas, spider veins, or facial redness are affecting your confidence, book a consultation with our dermatology team today. Using the Excel V+ vascular laser, we can safely and precisely remove unwanted lesions to restore clear, healthy-looking skin.

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