A small purple pimple-looking thing is in most probability a Cherry Angioma. Cherry angioma has been defined as a benign skin growth made up of blood vessels.
These skin lesions vary in size but are usually around a quarter inch in diameter and appear bright cherry red to purple in color. They look almost like pimples and just like pimples when they first appear they are very small dots. They then normally grow in size and thickness. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the trunk of the body.
These growths are quite common and are usually seen more in people over the age 30, rather than in younger people. There has been no concrete study or research on how and what causes these angiomas. This may be because they are harmless and actually require no treatment at all. The only risk associated with these angiomas is that they may get injured easily as they are so close to the skin and this can cause bleeding.
They are usually treated and removed only for aesthetic reasons or if they tend to bleed constantly. The procedure to remove them may involve any one of the following methods:
- Burning
- Freezing
- Laser
- Shave excision
Usually removal does not leave any scars on the skin.
There are certain home remedies for removing these small purple-looking things. Listed below are a few remedies for those who prefer treating these harmless papules at home, rather than spending time and money in a skin clinic.
- Maintain healthy skin by regular cleansing (without chemicals) and drink adequate amount of water.
- Mix sandalwood paste (or powder) and powdered basil leaves and apply this mixture on the affected area.
- Alternatively, you can try a paste made of crushed strawberry leaves.
- Witch hazel astringent can be applied to the affected area after a shower or after washing the skin.
- Applying Apple Cider Vinegar is believed to remove cherry angiomas. This however involves a lengthy process of first opening the skin growth by poking it and then rubbing in the ACV.
It is advisable to test these home remedies in small measure to see how your skin reacts before going all out.
References:
- Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2009.
- http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001441trt.htm
answered by S D