2. Cherry Angiomas: Bright Red Spots
Another common cause of red dots on the skin is cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas. These are small, benign tumors made up of blood vessels that commonly appear on the skin as bright red or purplish spots. Cherry angiomas are typically harmless and increase in frequency with age, often appearing on the torso, arms, or legs.
Cherry angiomas are usually round or oval, and they may vary in size, from tiny pinprick dots to larger spots. The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not well understood, but factors such as aging, genetics, and certain hormonal changes are thought to play a role. Although they are harmless, some people choose to have cherry angiomas removed for cosmetic reasons through laser treatments or surgical excision.
3. Erythema: Red Skin Patches
Erythema refers to red patches of skin caused by increased blood flow to the capillaries in response to irritation, inflammation, or infection. Erythema can manifest in different forms and is commonly associated with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or allergic reactions.
Common types of erythema include:
-Erythema multiforme: A condition often triggered by infections or medications, presenting as red or purple target-like lesions.
-Erythema nodosum: A form of skin inflammation that results in red, painful nodules, often seen on the shins. It can be associated with infections, inflammatory diseases, or certain medications.