Blood Spots

What do blood spots look like?

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Blood Spots, also known as Cherry Angiomas, are small, round, bright red or purple lesions that typically appear on the skin's surface. These benign growths are made up of clusters of small blood vessels and can range in size from a tiny dot to a few millimetres in diameter.

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They most commonly appear on the torso, arms, or upper body, although they can appear anywhere on the skin. Blood spots, or cherry angiomas, are usually painless and don't cause any discomfort, but their appearance can be bothersome, especially if they are in a prominent area.

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What causes blood spots?

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The exact cause of blood spots, or cherry angiomas, is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:

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• Age: Blood spots are more common in adults, particularly after the age of 30. The likelihood of developing these spots increases with age.
  
  
• Genetics: A family history of cherry angiomas may increase the risk of developing them.
  
  
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can trigger the appearance of cherry angiomas in some individuals.
  
  
• Environmental factors: Prolonged exposure to sunlight and certain chemicals may contribute to the development of blood spots, or cherry angiomas, though this is not fully proven.

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Should I be concerned about blood spots?

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Blood Spots are harmless and are not cancerous. They do not pose any health risks and usually do not require treatment unless they become bothersome, grow in size, or appear in visible areas. If a blood spot, or cherry angioma, changes in shape, color, or size, or starts to bleed, it’s important to have it checked by a professional to rule out any other conditions. Otherwise, they are considered benign and can be safely removed for cosmetic reasons.

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How do we treat cherry angiomas at Elite Skin Studio?

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At Elite Skin Studio, we offer two highly effective treatments for blood spots: Advanced Electrolysis and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). Both methods are safe and effective in targeting and removing blood spots, with minimal discomfort and downtime.

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1. Consultation: Your treatment begins with a consultation to assess the size, location, and number of blood spots. We’ll discuss your goals and determine the best treatment option for you.
   
   
2. Advanced Electrolysis: This treatment uses a fine needle to apply a small electrical current to the blood spot, which destroys the blood vessels, causing the spot to fade and disappear. It’s an ideal option for smaller, isolated lesions.
   
   
3. IPL Treatment: IPL uses pulses of light to target the blood vessels in the blood spots, or cherry angioma, breaking them down and causing the spot to fade. IPL is more suited for treating multiple blood spots or larger areas, as it’s faster and covers a larger treatment area.
   

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Which treatment route to choose for blood spot treatment?

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We generally recommend IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) in the first instance because it is effective for treating multiple spots at once and works well for larger areas. IPL is gentle and non-invasive, and it can target a range of skin concerns, making it ideal for addressing multiple blood spots in a single session.

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Ultimately, the treatment route will depend on factors like the size, number, and location of the blood spots, as well as any medical conditions that may affect either treatment. During your consultation, we’ll assess your needs and determine the best approach to give you the best possible results.

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Aftercare for blood spot removal

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After treatment, the treated area may be slightly red or swollen, which typically subsides within a few hours. Some crusting may occur as the blood vessels heal, and this should fall off naturally. It’s important to avoid picking at the treated area to prevent scarring. We will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid irritation. Most individuals see full results within a week to two weeks after treatment.

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How do I prevent blood spots from coming back?

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While treatment is effective at removing blood spots, or cherry angiomas, new ones can form over time due to age or genetics. There is no guaranteed way to prevent new cherry angiomas from developing, but maintaining a healthy skincare routine and protecting your skin from prolonged sun exposure can help reduce the risk of new lesions. Using SPF daily and avoiding harsh environmental factors may also help.

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What are the limitations of blood spot treatment?

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While advanced electrolysis and IPL are highly effective at treating blood spots, multiple treatments may be necessary if you have several spots, especially for larger areas or more persistent lesions. New blood spots can also develop over time, particularly as you age, so periodic treatments may be required for long-term maintenance.

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