What should you know about many small cherry angiomas?

Short answer
Many small cherry angiomas are common benign blood-vessel growths that appear as red or purple spots, although a changing or persistently bleeding spot should be checked.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Appearance
- Red, burgundy or purple smooth spots that may be raised.
- Cause of colour
- Small blood vessels close to the skin surface.
- Treatment
- Removal is usually optional after diagnosis.
Recognising these red spots
Cherry angiomas are usually smooth or slightly raised, sharply defined and red, burgundy or purple. They can occur on the trunk, arms, shoulders or other skin and may become more noticeable over time. A spot that is irregular, very dark, ulcerated or unlike the others may not be a cherry angioma and should be examined.
They are not caused by dirt and are not contagious. Their colour comes from small blood vessels close to the skin surface, which is why shaving, scratching or clothing can make one bleed.
Choosing what to do
Leave stable, symptom-free spots alone if they do not bother you. Avoid picking them and use gentle pressure if one is lightly grazed. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis before discussing cosmetic removal. Options may include [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/) or [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/); the choice depends on the spot and your skin.
When to have a spot checked
Book a skin assessment for a spot that changes quickly, bleeds without clear trauma, develops a sore or crust, becomes painful or looks different from your other spots. Seek prompt help if bleeding will not stop with firm, continuous pressure. Do not burn or cut these lesions at home.
Questions for your doctor
Does this spot have the typical appearance of a cherry angioma? Is removal medically needed or cosmetic? Which method fits its size and position, and what temporary colour or scarring changes might follow?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Are cherry angiomas contagious?
No. They are blood-vessel growths and do not spread by contact.
Should every cherry angioma be removed?
No. Stable spots can be observed; changing or bleeding lesions should be checked first.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.