Understanding cherry angioma treatment
These spots are collections of small blood vessels. They are harmless, increase in number with age, and do not require treatment unless they bleed with friction or are cosmetically bothersome.
Treatment targets the vessels within the lesion. A small scab forms and separates over about a week, leaving skin that usually settles well.
Any red lesion that is growing, bleeding spontaneously or looks atypical is examined more carefully before treatment.
This may suit you if
- Red spots on the trunk, arms or face
- Angiomas catching on clothing and bleeding
- Multiple lesions treated in one session
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Examination
The lesions are confirmed as benign vascular spots before treatment.
- 2
Anaesthesia if needed
Topical anaesthetic is used for larger lesions; small ones are often treated without it.
- 3
Treatment
Radiofrequency cautery or laser is applied to each lesion, taking only seconds per spot.
- 4
Healing
Small scabs form and separate over about a week with simple aftercare.
Aftercare
- Keep the treated area clean and dry as instructed
- Apply the prescribed ointment and dressing until healed
- Do not pick or scratch scabs
- Use sun protection on the healed area to reduce marking
Possible side effects
- Temporary pigment change at treated sites
- Small residual marks
- Recurrence of the lesion if treated superficially
- New angiomas appearing elsewhere with age