Red Spots on Skin

There are a number of causes associated with the red spots on skin. Red spots can appear anywhere on the body. Sometimes, the affected site of the body helps in identifying the accurate cause of red spots on the skin. Although, the red spots are most likely to be harmless, it is imperative that you keep a close watch on them. In certain cases, they may indicate an onset of a dreadful disease like skin cancer or leukemia. Here are some of the causes of red skin spots.

Acne Marks
Acne marks are red or brown in color. They are called 'macules' and are flat in shape. Macules are the scars which are left by acne after healing. These marks are not permanent and often fade away with time. However, exposure to sun may prolong the recovery procedure.

Birthmarks
Birthmarks, also called hemangioma, is a pigmented spot which is visible immediately after the birth or develops later. Hemangioma is mostly concerned with blood vessels. Birthmarks can be distinguished from other red spots, since they mostly develop during early childhood.

Blood Spots
Blood spots are formed under the skin but eventually appear on its surface. Blood spots are also called purpura or petechiae and are a result of infection, bleeding or clotting disorders such as vasculitis. Certain blood thinning medications and drugs like aspirin also give rise to blood spots. Blood spots should be closely monitored as they may be a symptom of leukemia, lupus or cirrhosis.

Dermatofibromas
These are in the form of small, firm, red or brown bumps. Dermatofibromas are a result of accumulation of soft tissues called fibroblasts. They are often found on the legs and torso. They should be reported to a physician, if their occurrence is associated with itching or pain.

Pyogenic Granulomas
These small red spots on skin result from the accumulation of blood vessels. Apart from red, these spots may also appear blue, purple or brown. They are often the result of an injury which caused a damage to the blood vessels.

Rosacea
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but it often runs in the family. Mostly, people with very fair skin are affected by rosacea. A spate of red pimple like pustules appear on the skin, which gives a 'blush' like appearance to the face.

Cherry Angioma
Cherry angioma is a development of large, red spots on the skin. If the spots become even larger, their color changes from red to blue. Like rosacea, cherry angioma also runs into the family. However, the development of cherry angioma is not restricted to face alone, it can develop on any part of the body. Cherry angioma is not associated with any disease or disorder and is absolutely harmless.

Most red spots on skin respond to medical treatments and vanish permanently. However, a few may need laser or surgical removal. Although, most tiny red spots are vaguely termed as 'skin rash'. Their appearance differs slightly according to their cause. Accurate diagnosis of red spots is a must for proper treatment of the disease.

If the occurrence of red spots is a recent phenomenon, check out for any change in food, cosmetics, laundry, soaps etc. Certain allergies can also lead to red spots on skin. In any case, it doesn't hurt to see a physician and get yourself tested.