Red moles
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Red moles, commonly referred to as small, red vascular skin lesions, are usually benign and not a health threat. They typically appear gradually with age and can occur individually or in larger numbers on the torso, limbs, or face. While many people consider them merely an aesthetic flaw, their presence can be a source of concern—especially if a lesion grows rapidly, bleeds, or changes in appearance. Understanding what red moles are, why they develop, and when they require diagnosis helps approach the subject rationally and avoid both trivializing and unnecessary panic.
Red moles – what are they
Red moles are most often cherry angiomas (angioma senile, cherry angioma), which are benign proliferations of small blood vessels in the dermis. Clinically, they appear as:
- small, round or oval papules,
- intensely red, cherry, or burgundy in color,
- ranging from 1-2 mm to several millimeters in diameter,
- with a smooth surface, sometimes slightly raised above the skin.
These lesions are not malignant tumors and do not have the potential to transform into melanoma. They occur with similar frequency in both women and men. Their number typically increases with age, which is a physiological phenomenon. Other red vascular lesions, such as telangiectasias or capillary malformations, are less commonly encountered, so diagnosis should always be based on clinical examination, and in case of doubt, dermatoscopic examination.
Red moles – causes
The exact mechanism of the formation of red moles is not fully explained, but research points to several important factors:
- Age – they most commonly appear after the age of 30-40 and increase over time,
- Genetic predisposition – more frequent in individuals with a family history,
- Hormonal changes – pregnancy, postpartum period, menopause,
- Environmental factors – chronic exposure to UV radiation,
- Microvascular damage and disturbances in angiogenesis (the process of creating new blood vessels).
Contrary to popular myths, red moles are not a symptom of liver diseases or "body contamination". Such simplifications have no scientific basis and lead to incorrect diagnostic conclusions.
Red moles – when do they require consultation
Although most red moles are benign, there are situations where a dermatological consultation is advisable:
- sudden, rapid growth of the lesion,
- irregular shape or uneven color,
- recurring bleeding without injury,
- pain or inflammation around the lesion,
- appearance of a lesion with an unusual look, different from others ("ugly duckling sign").
In clinical practice, any skin lesion that raises doubts in the patient should be evaluated. Dermoscopic examination allows for a quick and painless confirmation of the lesion's benign nature or qualifies it for further diagnostics.
Red Moles – How to Remove
Removing red moles is not necessary from a medical standpoint as long as the lesion is benign. Indications for removal include:
- esthetic reasons,
- frequent mechanical injuries (e.g., in the area of a belt, bra, shaving),
- recurring bleeding,
- a doctor's recommendation after examination.
The most effective methods are medical procedures performed in clinical settings. It is not recommended to use home remedies or "burning" preparations – they can lead to scars, infections, and uncontrolled skin damage.
Treatments for red moles on the skin
In modern dermatology and aesthetic medicine, several safe and precise methods are used to remove red moles:
- vascular laser therapy – selectively closes small blood vessels without damaging surrounding tissues; a method with very high effectiveness and minimal risk of scarring,
- electrocoagulation – uses high-frequency current for controlled removal of the lesion,
- microsurgical radiofrequency – a precise technique with a short healing time,
- surgical removal – reserved for atypical or larger lesions, usually with histopathological examination.
The choice of method should always be preceded by a medical evaluation. A professionally performed procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and allows for permanent removal of the lesion with very good aesthetic results.
