Question 1

What is a cherry angioma?

Accepted Answer

A cherry angioma — also called a Campbell de Morgan spot, senile angioma, or cherry hemangioma — is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that forms when tiny blood vessels in the skin enlarge and cluster together just beneath the surface. They appear as bright-red or purple, round or oval bumps and can range from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size. They are most common on the trunk and limbs but can appear anywhere on the body. Up to one-third of adults over age 30 have at least one, and they tend to increase in number with age.

Question 2

Are cherry angiomas dangerous?

Accepted Answer

No. Cherry angiomas are benign and do not increase your risk of skin cancer. They are generally harmless and cause no symptoms. In rare cases they may bleed if scratched or bumped, or cause mild itching. However, if a lesion is growing, changing color, or bleeding frequently, it is important to have it evaluated by a qualified provider to rule out other conditions.

Question 3

What causes cherry angiomas?

Accepted Answer

The exact cause is not fully understood, but cherry angiomas are associated with aging and cumulative sun exposure. There is also a genetic component — they tend to run in families. They are not caused by any specific lifestyle factor, though some research suggests associations with hormonal changes and certain chemical exposures.

Question 4

How does Candela Nordlys® IPL remove cherry angiomas?

Accepted Answer

The Nordlys® IPL uses Selective Waveband Technology (SWT®) to deliver narrowband light pulses that are selectively absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood vessels making up the angioma. This absorption generates heat that collapses and seals the vessel walls. After treatment, the angioma turns darker — a normal response. Over the following one to two weeks, the body clears the treated vessel and the lesion fades or falls off. IPL is best suited for smaller, more superficial cherry angiomas in patients with Fitzpatrick Skin Types I–IV.

Question 5

When is the Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser used instead of IPL?

Accepted Answer

The Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser on the Nordlys® platform is preferred for larger, raised, or deeper cherry angiomas that may not respond as well to IPL alone. The 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper into the dermis, reaching the full vascular cluster. Because melanin absorbs less energy at 1064 nm than at shorter wavelengths, it also offers a safer profile for patients with medium to olive skin tones (Fitzpatrick Types III–IV). Your provider will select the appropriate modality — IPL, Nd:YAG, or a combination — based on your specific lesions and skin type at consultation.

Question 6

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

On average, most cherry angiomas clear completely in one to two sessions. Smaller, superficial lesions often resolve after a single treatment. Larger or deeper lesions may benefit from a second session spaced 4–6 weeks after the first. Your provider will set realistic expectations at your consultation based on lesion size, number, and location.

Question 7

Is the treatment painful?

Accepted Answer

Nordlys® is generally a comfortable treatment. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick, warm snap — similar to a rubber band flick. Each lesion takes only seconds to treat, so the overall session is very brief. A cooling tip on the handpiece helps manage discomfort throughout.

Question 8

What should I expect after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Immediately after treatment, the angioma will appear darker — gray, brown, or purple. This is a normal and expected response indicating the vessel has been successfully targeted. The treated area may be mildly pink or red for 24–48 hours. Over the following one to two weeks, the darkened lesion gradually fades or forms a small crust that falls off on its own. Avoid picking or scrubbing the area during healing, and apply SPF daily to protect the treated skin.

Question 9

Are there skin types that are not good candidates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Candela Nordlys® IPL is safest and most effective for Fitzpatrick Skin Types I–IV (fair to medium-olive complexions). The Nd:YAG 1064 nm modality extends safe treatment to Types III–IV with greater confidence due to its deeper penetration and lower melanin absorption at that wavelength. Patients with darker skin tones (Types V–VI) carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation with IPL. A detailed Fitzpatrick assessment is performed at every consultation to confirm candidacy and select the appropriate modality.

Question 10

Can new cherry angiomas develop after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Treatment permanently removes existing angiomas, but it does not prevent new ones from forming. Cherry angiomas are a natural part of aging and tend to increase in number over time. Treated lesions do not return, but new ones may appear elsewhere on the body.

Question 11

How is laser therapy different from other removal methods?

Accepted Answer

Other options for cherry angioma removal include electrocauterization (electrodesiccation), cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen), and shave excision. While these can be effective, they carry a higher risk of scarring, require more recovery time, or may be less precise. Laser and IPL therapy with the Nordlys® platform offers a non-surgical, highly targeted approach with minimal downtime and no incisions — making it the preferred option at 86INK.

Question 12

How much does cherry angioma removal cost at 86INK?

Accepted Answer

Treatment starts at $50 per session. The final price depends on the number of lesions and the size of the treatment area. Pricing is confirmed at your consultation. Financing is available through Cherry.

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