Ruby angiomas: what they are and how they are removed

Ruby angiomas are small red spots, either flat or slightly raised, which mainly appear on the trunk, arms and legs. They are common after the age of 30 and tend to increase in number with age. They are almost always benign, and people who have them removed do so for cosmetic reasons. At Allure Clinic, assessment and treatment are carried out by the dermatologist Dr Ana Isabel Moreira, in her surgery.

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What is a ruby angioma?

It is a small cluster of blood vessels in the skin, which is why it is bright red in colour, sometimes with a purplish tinge. It is usually between 1 and 5 millimetres in size. Unlike a brown birthmark, it contains no pigment. It is also known as a senile angioma, cherry angioma or ruby spot.

Are they dangerous?

For most people, no. A ruby angioma is a benign lesion and does not develop into skin cancer.

You should show it to a dermatologist when:

• bleeds easily or without having been scratched;
• changes shape or colour, or grows rapidly;
• a lot of them appear in a short space of time;
• is unsure what it is.

During the consultation, the dermatologist examines the lesion using a dermatoscope and confirms the diagnosis before any treatment is given.

Why do they appear?

The exact cause is unknown. They become more common with age; some families are more prone to them; and they may occur more frequently during pregnancy.

How to remove them

The technique is chosen according to the size and number of angiomas and the area of the body. Allure Clinic uses Nd:YAG laser or intense pulsed light, which act on the haemoglobin and seal off the small blood vessels; this is the same technology the clinic uses to treat other vascular lesions. For more prominent angiomas, electrosurgery may be used.

The treatment is carried out in the doctor’s surgery, takes about 30 minutes and does not require anaesthesia. One session is usually sufficient. Larger angiomas may require two or three sessions.

After treatment

For a few hours, the area may feel warm and appear red. A small scab may form, which will fall off on its own within a few days. In the days that follow:

• apply the cream recommended by the dermatologist;
• do not pick at the scab;
• Avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight.

You can resume your normal activities on the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the removal leave a mark?

With laser treatment, this is rare. There may be a slight difference in colour for a few weeks, but this usually disappears.

Do angiomas come back?

A treated angioma does not usually return. However, as the tendency to develop them persists, others may appear in different areas over time.

Does it hurt?

Most people feel a brief warmth, like a tingling sensation on the skin. No anaesthetic is required.

How much does it cost to have an angioma removed?

The price depends on the number and size of the angiomas and is determined during the consultation.

Can I remove angiomas at home?

It is not advisable. Creams, acids or burning the angioma can cause bleeding, infection and scarring. Furthermore, a lesion that looks like an angioma may actually be something else.

Make your appointment

A dermatology consultation at Allure Clinic in Porto begins with a diagnosis of the lesion. If it is an angioma, treatment can be carried out during the same visit or at a subsequent appointment.

Book a dermatology appointment