“Blood moles” are a common cosmetic concern appearing as small, bright red bumps on the skin. Medically, these growths are known as cherry angiomas, or sometimes senile angiomas, and they are overwhelmingly benign (non-cancerous). While these lesions pose no threat to health, many individuals seek professional removal for aesthetic reasons.
Understanding “Blood Moles” (Cherry Angiomas)
Cherry angiomas are small, dome-shaped papules that typically range in size from a pinprick to about five millimeters in diameter. Their distinctive ruby-red color comes from a dense cluster of tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, that have proliferated near the skin’s surface. These lesions are most frequently found on the torso, arms, and legs, and they may appear flat when newly formed, becoming slightly raised over time.
They tend to increase in number after age 30, which is why they are sometimes called “senile angiomas.” The exact cause is not fully established, but development is strongly linked to the aging process and genetic predisposition. Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy, and exposure to certain chemicals have also been associated with their development. Cherry angiomas are a vascular phenomenon and are not related to sun exposure or serious internal illness.
Clinical Removal Procedures
Since cherry angiomas are composed of blood vessels, professional removal techniques focus on destroying or sealing these capillaries. Laser treatment is often considered the preferred method, specifically using a Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) or KTP laser. These vascular lasers emit a highly focused beam of light that is absorbed by the red pigment in the blood vessels, heating and destroying the lesion without causing significant damage to the surrounding skin.
Laser treatments offer a reduced risk of scarring, but multiple sessions may be needed to fully clear the angioma, particularly for larger or darker lesions. Another effective method is electrocauterization, which involves using a fine probe to deliver an electric current, burning the lesion and sealing the blood vessels beneath it. This procedure is quick and effective, though there is a slightly higher potential for minor scarring or a small, pale mark at the treatment site.
Cryotherapy is a viable option that involves briefly applying liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the tissue. The frozen lesion typically scabs and falls off within a week or two, though this technique can be less precise than laser treatment. For larger lesions, a minor surgical procedure called a shave excision may be performed to shave the growth flush with the skin, often followed by cauterization to stop bleeding. Since removal is considered cosmetic, these procedures are rarely covered by insurance.
Why Home Removal is Not Recommended
The high concentration of blood vessels within cherry angiomas makes any attempt at home removal extremely risky. Attempting to cut, pick, or tie off the lesion can lead to profuse bleeding that is difficult to stop. This also carries a high risk of introducing bacteria, which can result in a severe skin infection that complicates the healing process.
Many unproven online remedies suggest applying acidic or irritating substances like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil to shrink the spots. These substances are ineffective at destroying the underlying cluster of blood vessels and are more likely to cause chemical burns, inflammation, and permanent scarring. Only a medical professional can confirm the diagnosis and perform removal in a sterile environment using controlled, medical-grade equipment to ensure safety and minimize scarring.
Warning Signs and Medical Consultation
While cherry angiomas are benign, any new or existing skin growth that changes rapidly should be examined by a dermatologist. Specific changes that warrant a professional consultation include a sudden increase in size or a change in color, particularly if the lesion becomes dark black or develops irregular borders. Spontaneous bleeding, crusting, or the development of pain should also be promptly evaluated.
These signs can indicate the lesion is not a cherry angioma but possibly a more concerning condition, such as nodular melanoma, which can mimic a vascular lesion. In rare cases, a sudden, rapid eruption of numerous angiomas may suggest an underlying systemic issue that needs medical investigation. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose the lesion, confirm its benign nature, and discuss the safest options for cosmetic removal.