Removing Cherry Angiomas: The 5 Things Patients Ask Most
What is a Cherry Angioma
Cherry angiomas are small, red to purple growths that commonly appear on the skin, often resembling a small, round bump. While these growths are generally harmless, their appearance can sometimes be concerning for those who notice them on their skin. An estimated 50% of adults have cherry angiomas on their skin after age 30 increasing to 75% at 75 and older. In this blog post, we will dive deeper into the causes behind cherry angiomas, how pregnancy can play a role, and what treatment options exist to remove them.
Can Pregnancy Cause Cherry Angiomas?
The exact cause of cherry angiomas is not entirely understood, but we do know that genetics play a significant role. Hormonal changes, particularly those that occur during pregnancy, can also trigger the development of cherry angiomas. Not everyone experiences this, but those already predisposed to developing them might notice an increase in their formation during pregnancy.
Can At-Home Remedies or Topicals Remove Cherry Angiomas?
While home remedies and topicals are great for many skin concerns, cherry angiomas are one of those conditions that should not be treated at home. Attempting to remove or treat cherry angiomas with over-the-counter products or home remedies can lead to scarring, infection, or other complications.
There’s also no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of topical treatments or home remedies, such as essential oils or herbal solutions, for safely removing cherry angiomas. The safest and most effective way to treat cherry angiomas is under the care of a medical professional.
What Cosmetic Treatments Work Best to Remove Cherry Angiomas?
To treat cherry angiomas we use Vbeam, a pulsed-dye laser that specifically targets vascular lesions. The Vbeam laser works by emitting pulses of light that target the blood vessels in the cherry angioma, causing the growth to shrink and disappear over time. Typically, one to two treatments are sufficient, though this can vary depending on the size and number of angiomas being treated.
Laser treatments like Vbeam are preferred over other options such as electrocautery (which uses heat to burn the growth off) or liquid nitrogen (which freezes the angioma). Treatment with laser is favored because it carries a lower risk of scarring compared to other methods.
Will Cherry Angiomas Return After Treatment?
Once treated, the specific cherry angiomas that were targeted will likely not return. However, it’s important to remember that the treatment only addresses the existing angiomas. Unfortunately, this doesn’t prevent new cherry angiomas from developing in the future. As you age or experience hormonal changes, new angiomas could form in different areas of your skin.
If you are interested in removing a Cherry Angioma in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, contact our office for more information on treatment.