What should you know about melanoma red moles on skin?

A cherry angioma is a small growth made from clustered blood vessels. It may look bright red, purple, or darker red, and it can be smooth or slightly raised. These spots are usually harmless and are not the same condition as melanoma.

Melanoma is a cancer of pigment-producing cells and more often raises concern through a changing, irregular, or multi-coloured mark. Appearance can overlap, especially when a spot is irritated or bleeding, so colour alone cannot settle the question.

Leave a stable, symptom-free red spot alone and avoid squeezing or scratching it. Photograph a spot if you want to monitor its shape and surface, and arrange a skin examination when it changes, bleeds repeatedly, becomes painful, or is difficult to identify.

If removal is wanted because the spot catches on clothing or bleeds with friction, a dermatologist can discuss options such as pulsed dye laser treatment or electrosurgery. The choice depends on the spot's appearance, location, size, and diagnostic confidence.

Book a prompt review for a red spot that grows quickly, develops uneven pigment, forms a persistent sore or crust, or differs noticeably from your other spots. Seek urgent help if bleeding will not stop with firm direct pressure or if redness is spreading with fever and severe pain.

Ask whether the spot has the typical features of a cherry angioma, whether it should be examined with magnification or sampled, and which removal method suits its location. Clarify how to care for the area afterward and what change should prompt another review.