Red Spots on Skin

Red spots on skin can appear for a number of reasons. Since they are not always symptomatic of a serious problem, it's best not to worry. Instead, get familiarized with the various conditions that might cause red marks.

Red spots can strike for various reasons.

The first sign of an untoward mark on the skin can send anyone into a panic. Between checking suspicious moles for skin cancer and keeping a watchful eye on an impending blemish, it's possible to fixate on skin abnormalities for days on end. While it's good to be mindful of sudden changes and stay on top of anything that feels or appears different, it's not always necessary to worry about random marks on the skin.

Some are birthmarks, others are scars and still others are symptomatic of a variety of skin conditions. You may not always know what has caused those red spots on skin. This is simply because there are just so many different conditions out there that can present themselves with red spots or leave behind redness. Sometimes red marks may appear for no reason at all. Here are just a few of the causes of red skin marks:

• Acne Scars: Also known as "macules," acne scars are the flat marks left in the wake of a blemish that has healed. Usually these marks are red or brown. They aren't permanent, but they can certainly take their sweet time fading. Sun exposure is also a culprit in impeding the healing process. The right product regimen and proper acne skin care regimen can speed it along a bit.

• Birthmarks: Easily the simplest type of red spot to identify, a red birthmark, also known as a hemangioma, is a pigmented spot that develops at or just before birth. These marks are associated with blood vessels. There are several varieties of hemangiomas, ranging from the typical strawberry mark that appears on the face or scalp to the rich port-wine stain as seen on Mikhail Gorbachev. Some of these are temporary and do not require treatment, while permanent marks can be covered with a heavy concealing makeup or surgically removed in some cases.

• Blood Spots: Caused by conditions known as purpura or petechiae, blood spots form under the skin and reveal themselves on the surface. Purpura spots resemble bruises, while petechiae spots are flat and red (or purple). These spots may appear as a result of infection; bleeding or clotting disorders; vasculitis; certain medications (such as blood thinners or aspirin); certain diseases (such as lupus, leukemia and cirrhosis); and malnutrition, to name a few. Treatment should be sought for abnormal spots.

• Dermatofibromas: These small bumps are firm and may present themselves as either brown or red. They are caused by excess accumulation of soft tissue cells beneath the skin, known as fibroblasts. They're commonly found on the legs, and can be surgically removed if accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms (such as itchiness or pain).

• Pyogenic Granulomas: The result of an excess growth of small blood vessels and swelling, these marks are raised and appear either brown, blue-black or red on the skin. They are typical in the aftermath of an injury, and may disappear on their own. If not, however, they may be surgically removed. Tests may also be conducted to rule out the possibility of cancer.

• Rosacea: Its exact cause is unknown, but it has a tendency to afflict those with very fair skin. Rosacea may present with a spate of red bumps or pimples on various parts of the face, often accompanied by flushing. Small red veins that resemble spider webs may also be apparent from time to time. These symptoms can last for several days. Patients can control their symptoms with a variety of medications, but there is no actual cure for rosacea.

Determining the actual cause of your red marks is the best way to figure out how to treat them. If you recently had a superficial skin injury that you may have scratched at some point, you can count on a little redness to show up. Treating it with an over-the-counter antibiotic cream is sufficient. Acne scars, too, don't usually require medical attention. If you're suspicious about the sudden appearance of a red mark, experience a change in pigmentation of a mole or simply won't feel comfortable until you've put your worries to rest, pay a visit to your dermatologist.

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