A bright red dot on your chest. A small bump on your arm that you don’t remember seeing before. Once you notice a new spot, it’s hard not to keep checking it. You might wonder what it is, whether it’s harmless and if anything can be done about it.
At BC Laser & Skincare in Surrey, we assess red spots and bumps before recommending treatment. Some are small collections of blood vessels that can be treated for cosmetic reasons. Others need a different kind of care. The first step is finding out which you’re dealing with.
Could it be a cherry angioma
Cherry angiomas are common, benign growths made up of small blood vessels. They often look like little red or purplish bumps, and they become more common with age. Despite their bright colour, a confirmed cherry angioma is harmless. 1
You don’t usually need to remove one for medical reasons. You may still want to if it catches on clothing, becomes irritated or bothers you because of where it sits. We can talk through whether removal is appropriate and what to expect from healing. 6
Red does not always mean the same thing
A raised red dot is different from fine visible vessels across your cheeks or the broader flushing associated with rosacea. A rash, an irritated growth or another skin condition can look red too. Even some skin cancers can resemble a harmless spot, which is why appearance alone isn’t enough for a diagnosis. 1, 2
Tell us when the spot appeared and whether it’s growing, bleeding or changing. If we’re concerned about what it might be, medical assessment comes before cosmetic treatment. Try not to pick it or use a home removal product while you’re working out what it is.
How laser treatment can help some red spots
For suitable vascular concerns, laser treatment targets blood vessels using light absorbed by components of the blood. Our options include excel V, which we use for selected redness and visible vessel concerns. The settings and treatment plan depend on your skin and the spot being treated. 3, 4, 5
That means a tiny isolated bump and widespread facial redness won’t necessarily need the same approach. We may be able to treat the visible vessels, but we also need to consider any underlying condition. For example, laser can help with visible vessels in rosacea, while rosacea itself may still need ongoing management. 2
Want to see which concerns we treat? Read more about red spots and bumps here.
Is laser the only option for a cherry angioma
No. Depending on the diagnosis and circumstances, treatments for a cherry angioma may include laser, freezing or electrosurgery. Leaving a confirmed harmless angioma alone is also an option. We’ll help you understand which approach makes sense for the spot you’ve come in about. 6
If your main concern is how it looks, tell us. A good decision includes weighing the existing mark against the possibility of a small scar or change in colour after removal.
What your skin may look like afterwards
With vascular laser treatment, temporary redness, swelling or bruising can occur. Burns, changes in pigmentation and scarring are also possible. Your skin tone, recent sun exposure and treatment settings all matter when we assess suitability. Tell us about a recent tan or a holiday in the sun before booking. 4, 5
We’ll explain how to look after the treated area, including sun protection and when to return to your usual skincare. If you’re planning treatment before an occasion, leave time to discuss recovery with us rather than assuming a small spot means no visible healing.
Questions about red spots and removal
Can you tell what a spot is from a photo?
A photo can help you show us what you’re concerned about, particularly if it has changed. It doesn’t replace an appropriate assessment or confirm that cosmetic removal is suitable.
Will every red spot disappear completely?
We can’t promise that. The diagnosis, the treatment and your skin’s response all affect the outcome. We’ll explain what improvement is realistic before you decide.
What if I notice more cherry angiomas later?
New cherry angiomas can develop over time. Removing an existing one doesn’t prevent others from appearing elsewhere. Have any new or changing spot checked if you’re unsure what it is. 1, 6
Let us take a look
If a red spot has caught your attention, book a consultation with us to find out what it is and whether treatment could help. Visit BC Laser & Skincare at 13805 104 Avenue, Suite 101, Surrey, BC. Call 604-580-2464 or email infobclaser@dermapure.com.
