The appearance of a red or blue spot on the lip is a common concern often mistaken for a “broken blood vessel.” These marks are generally benign vascular lesions—localized collections of blood vessels close to the skin’s surface. While usually harmless, their visibility on the lip often prompts a desire for removal. Understanding the nature of these lesions and the professional techniques available is the first step toward safely addressing them.
Understanding Lip Vascular Lesions
The spots often mistaken for a broken blood vessel are typically benign vascular growths: venous lakes or angiomas. A venous lake is a dilated vein, frequently appearing as a soft, compressible, dark blue or purple spot, usually on the lower lip of older individuals. These lesions result from a localized widening of a vein near the skin.
Angiomas, including cherry and spider angiomas, are clusters of small blood vessels that appear as red or purple growths. Both venous lakes and angiomas are associated with chronic sun exposure and ultraviolet (UV) damage. Aging and trauma to the lip area, such as biting or injury, can also contribute to their development.
The thin skin of the lips, particularly the lower lip, makes underlying blood vessels vulnerable to environmental damage and dilation. Although these lesions are asymptomatic, they can occasionally bleed if injured, making them a common cosmetic concern. Because some serious conditions can resemble these benign lesions, a professional diagnosis is important before removal.
Professional Removal Techniques
The most effective method for removing lip vascular lesions is specialized laser technology. Vascular lasers, such as the Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) or the Nd:YAG laser, selectively target the hemoglobin within the blood vessels. This process heats and destroys the lesion with minimal damage to surrounding tissue, leading to coagulation and disappearance.
Laser treatment is quick, often requiring only a few minutes, and is performed on an outpatient basis. Many patients achieve the desired outcome after a single session, though larger or deeper lesions may require a touch-up treatment. The goal of photocoagulation is to collapse the dilated vessel, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods.
For lesions difficult to treat with lasers, electrocautery or radiofrequency ablation may be used, employing heat to seal and destroy the blood vessel. Surgical excision remains an option for very large lesions. This method carries a higher risk of scarring and is reserved for cases where less invasive options are not suitable.
Pre-Treatment Consultation and Aftercare
Before any procedure, a consultation with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. The specialist will review your medical history and assess the lesion’s characteristics, such as size and depth, to determine the most appropriate treatment. Patients with a history of cold sores may need to start prophylactic antiviral medication before laser treatment, as the procedure can sometimes trigger a recurrence.
Following the procedure, immediate side effects are common. Patients often experience slight swelling, typically lasting a couple of days, along with redness or bruising. Applying a cold compress helps reduce post-procedure swelling.
Minor crusting or a scab may form over the treated area and should be allowed to heal naturally without picking. Keeping the area moisturized with an occlusive ointment, such as petroleum jelly, promotes faster healing. Avoid excessive heat, such as hot tubs or strenuous exercise, for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Long-Term Management and Prevention
Reducing the risk of new vascular lesions requires consistent protective habits, primarily limiting sun exposure. Since UV damage contributes to the development of venous lakes, daily use of a lip balm with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is recommended. Reapply this protective layer frequently, especially after eating or drinking, to maintain effectiveness.
Avoiding physical trauma to the lips is also a preventive measure, including minimizing habits like biting or picking. Protecting the lips with a wide-brimmed hat can further shield them from direct sunlight during peak hours. These habits help maintain the integrity of the lip’s delicate skin and underlying blood vessels.
Self-treatment methods should be avoided entirely. Attempting to puncture or apply harsh chemicals to a lip lesion can lead to infection, bleeding, and permanent scarring. For any persistent or changing spot on the lip, professional medical evaluation is the safest course of action.