The Difference Between Rosacea and Angiomas

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While rosacea and angiomas might go unnoticed on your arms and chest, they can have a serious impact on your facial complexion. If you’ve noticed a persistent rashy “blush” or lesions on your face, you might be wondering what can be done to clear your skin. The first step to building a treatment plan is diagnosing exactly what’s wrong, and a specialist can help you determine whether you’re suffering from rosacea or angiomas.

At Associated Dermatologists, with offices in Berkley, Commerce, Novi, and West Bloomfield, Michigan, our experienced team can differentiate between rosacea and angiomas and use a vascular laser if appropriate to help clear your skin of red spots and lines.

Understanding the difference in red spots on your skin

Rosacea and angiomas can both lead to red bumps and blemishes, which is why many people mistake them for each other. Diagnosing them correctly can help you find an effective treatment plan.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a common condition that causes a red “blush” over your face, shoulders, chest, and arms. It affects over 16 million people in the United States, particularly women and those with fair skin. There are four types of rosacea, starting with mild redness and escalating into severe skin issues.

Mild rosacea will often manifest as a persistent blush and visible blood vessels on your face. As the symptoms worsen, you might experience acne-like breakouts, thick and bumpy skin, and even inflamed eyes. This condition has no cure, but skin treatments and lifestyle changes can help you manage it.

Angiomas

Cherry angiomas are red bumps on your skin, while spider angiomas are clusters of visible blood vessels. They occur in 50% of adults, especially as you grow older. Cherry angiomas are often slightly raised and brightly colored, which is why many people have them removed. While they’re almost always harmless, they might bleed if they become irritated by clothes or exfoliants.

Unlike rosacea, which looks more like a rash, cherry angiomas are blemishes with clear edges, and spider veins are typically more defined. They can be removed using skin treatments like vascular lasers.

How laser skin treatments can help

Laser skin treatments can be used to treat angiomas and rosacea, which makes it an attractive option for those who experience both. Vascular lasers work by targeting the hemoglobin that causes the skin discoloration. As heat energy is delivered, the veins collapse, and your body reroutes the blood to new areas.

It can take a few sessions to see results, but laser skin treatments are completely noninvasive, which means there’s no need for scalpels or downtime.

To learn more, schedule a consultation with the team at Associated Dermatologists. To get in touch, call the location closest to you, or request an appointment online.