Red Moles

Moles are darkened patches of skin, usually circular in shape, that appear in various spots on most people’s bodies. The patch might be brown or red and might look very similar to a larger, darker freckle. Though red moles are often no different than their brown counterparts, there are instances in which red moles signify a skin problem. In extreme cases, red moles can be a sign of cancer. Read on to find out what causes red moles and when to seek medical attention because of a red mole.

Causes of Red Moles

There are several different types of red moles.

Cause

Description

Cherry Hemangiomas

Cherry hemangiomas, also called senile angiomas, cherry angiomas and Campbell de Morgan spots, are an abnormal growth of blood vessels. They have a red or purple hue, range in size from one to four mm in size, and usually develop on the heels, armpits, legs, back, chest and genitals.

Intradermal Melanocytic Nevi

These moles are the most common type. They have little pigmentation and are slightly raised. They are typically pink or light red and maintain basically the same shape for a person’s entire life.

Pyogenic Granulomas

This type of mole causes people to rush to their doctor’s office, but they are harmless. They tend to bleed and are softer than other moles, and many people choose to have them surgically removed.

Red Moles Triggered by Melanoma

These are cancerous moles that often have a suspicious appearance. If you suspect your red mole is a sign of melanoma, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Other Causes

There are several other things that can cause red moles to appear on the skin, including heredity, sun exposure, aging and fluctuations in hormones.

Diagnosis of Red Moles

If you suspect a mole could be cancerous, you should schedule a consultation with your doctor as soon as possible. There are several factors to consider when determining if a mole is problematic. To determine if a red mole is suspicious, consider its:

Removal of Noncancerous Red Moles

Once a mole is evaluated and deemed non-cancerous, you can choose whether or not and how you wish to remove it. The treatments listed below are not approved by the FDA, so consult your doctor before taking action.

1. Home Remedies

2. Medical Treatment

There are several medical treatments available to lighten or remove red moles from the skin. These include:

If you are concerned about which of these options is right for you, speak to your doctor. If he or she has any concerns about a mole on your body, you will likely be advised to have the mole removed. Removal is typically an in-office procedure that is quick and pain-free.

When to See a Doctor

For most people, red moles are not cancerous and are just a normal skin phenomenon. However, if you suspect something might be unusual, it is better to consult your doctor. If your doctor recommends removal, treatment, or monitoring the mole for changes, follow through and take care of the issue as soon as possible.

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