Have you noticed tiny red spots on your arms — or on your legs, chest, or back?
They might be so small you almost miss them.
No pain. No itch.
Just pinpoint red dots that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Before you panic, take a breath.
These spots — often called petechiae or cherry angiomas — are common and usually harmless.
But in some cases, they can be a clue to an underlying condition — especially if they’re new, spreading, or accompanied by other symptoms.
Let’s explore what small red spots on your skin really mean, when to pay attention, and when to talk to your doctor — so you can respond with awareness, not fear.
What Are Those Tiny Red Spots?
There are several common causes of small red spots on the skin. Here are the most likely:
1. Cherry Angiomas (Most Common)
- What they are: Tiny, bright red or purple bumps caused by clusters of blood vessels
- Appearance: Round, dome-shaped, 1–5 mm in size
- Where they appear: Arms, torso, shoulders
- Harmless — more common with age (over 30)
- Not contagious or dangerous
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