Red Spots on Skin

Red spots are amongst the most common type of skin ailment. Almost every skin disease has red spots as one of its primary symptoms. 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. Red spots are more often than not mistaken for common skin rash. However, the seemingly harmless skin rash may be an indication of some lethal disease. In certain cases, they may indicate an onset of a dreadful disease like skin cancer or leukemia.

Red spots may sometimes be accompanied with itching, pain, swelling etc. Some red spots may also be fluid filled. On the other hand, you may have some red spots which neither hurt, nor change their appearance over years. While it is natural to assume them as harmless, it is better to get them checked, more so, if they have formed during adulthood. In this article, we have presented some of the causes of red skin spots, that should help you in identifying the nature and scope of your individual condition.

Common Causes of Red Spots on Skin

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 a 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.

Hives Hives appear as smooth, elevated wheals on skin. They vary greatly in size, with a diameter ranging from a few millimeters to few inches. They fluctuate greatly, meaning they may rapidly change size or their position. Bee sting, drug allergies are some common causes that trigger hives. The tendency to develop hives is mostly genetic.

Folliculitis It is a common type of skin rash, appearing as small red bumps at hair follicles. There are about 10 - 100 bumps scattered on a body part. The rash may appear at any place where there is hair growth. Bacteria is mostly responsible for the spread of rash.

Heat Rash Heat rash is a classic cause of red spots on skin. It develops when sweat glands become clogged, thereby trapping sweat inside the skin. This leads to occurrence of little bumps on the skin. Tight clothing, creases in skin etc., are some common causes for heat rashes.

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.

Disclaimer: The information presented above is for educational purpose only and not for self-diagnosis. We do not encourage its usage as an alternative for medical practitioner's advice.