Moles and freckles -- including red moles and red freckles -- are common, with Dermweb.com noting that most people have an average of 25 moles by their 20s and 30s. Moles and freckles are often harmless; however, MayoClinic.org cautions that skin cancer can sometimes resemble these benign discolorations. Consult your doctor if there are changes in appearance in the outline, color or shape of any skin mole.
Red Mole Features
Red moles, medically known as cherry angiomas due to their bright red or purplish-red appearance, are non-contagious and benign, or harmless. The National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus website says that red moles usually grow on the trunk, although they can appear anywhere on your body, and range in size from a pinhead-sized dot to 1/4 inch in diameter. According to John L. Meisenheimer, M.D., a dermatologist in Orlando, Florida, these noncancerous moles usually appear after age 40, and are linked with genetics.
Complications of Red Moles
If red moles are irritated by an article of clothing, they can itch and sometimes bleed. Psychological stress can result from the moles' unsightly appearance, especially if they are very visible and numerous.
Removal of Red Moles
Troublesome red moles can be removed during a visit to your dermatologist's office, although Meisenheimer states that insurance will normally not pay for this procedure unless the mole is inflamed or clinically suspicious. According to Acne-Psoriasis-Treatment.com, red moles can be removed by electrodessication, in which the blood vessels are destroyed by a needle. Other removal methods include treatment with liquid nitrogen and laser removal.
Ordinary Red Freckles
Freckles, which commonly appear on people with light or red hair, are clusters of concentrated melanin. Known as ephelides, freckles are normally not a cause for concern. Most freckles are brownish, but can be reddish brown or even red. Rowena Santos, M.D., an internal medicine physician in St. Louis, Missouri, advises using sunscreen to help prevent the formation of freckles.
Petichia
A red mark that looks like a tiny red freckle, speckle or dot may be cause for a doctor's visit, especially if there are many of them. According to MayoClinic.com, petichia -- spots on your skin that can also look purple or brownish -- are caused by bleeding into your skin. They appear in clusters, usually on ankles, feet and the abdomen, and may resemble a rash; they do not become pale when pressed on. The website notes that petichia can be caused by a clotting abnormality resulting from serious diseases, including lupus and leukemia. If you develop these red spots, see your doctor right away for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Dysplastic Nevi
Dysplastic nevi are atypical, or abnormal, moles. According to the National Cancer Institute, one person in every ten has dysplastic nevi, which can be red or pinkish, as well as tan or brown, often with notched or irregular edges. They appear most frequently on the back, but can also develop on scalp, breasts and buttocks. Doctors believe these are more likely than ordinary moles to develop into melanoma, or skin cancer. Dysplastic nevi should be checked by a specialist, especially if they grow larger or change in appearance.
Warning Signs
If you're over 20 and develop a new mole, MayoClinic.com advises seeing a doctor. You should also visit a doctor if you have pain, itching or burning in a mole, if it oozes or bleeds, exhibits a scaly or crusty appearance, or undergoes a sudden change in shape, color, size or elevation.
