A: No, the most likely explanation is a condition known as Dermatosis Papulosis Nigra. This is seen in people of Caribbean or African descent. It is usually familial. The safest treatment is VariLite Laser, but if they are raised, they can sometimes be excised.
Q: I have heard dark skin cannot be treated by laser. Is this true?
A: Not completely true, but certainly, darker skin requires certain lasers be used, other avoided, and having a dermatologist with experience treating darker skin is mandatory. There are long pulsed lasers that are safe for darker skin when hair removal is needed. The most common laser for dark skin in my practice is the very gentle 532 VariLite laser. I have been using a version of this technology since 1999. I primarily use it on darker skin for a condition known as dermatosis papulosis nigra. These appear as tiny, slightly raised dark growths that are seen most commonly on the face and neck of people of African descent. While these growths are benign, they cause a lot of cosmetic concern since they increase in number as you age. The best approach is to take control and get 1-3 treatments each year in order to keep the growths from proliferating all over your face. I have found that the Iridex has the highest safety rating for treating these spots without a risk of loss of pigment.
Q: I am starting to see a number of deep red moles on my abdomen and breasts. Is this a concern?
A: The most common explanation is cherry angiomas. These are benign growths of blood vessels that are seen commonly in middle age. They have no medical significance. They are not cancerous or pre-cancerous. The most common and safe remedy is the use of the Cutera 532 VariLite laser. The laser energy is absorbed by the blood in the growth, and converted into hear that destroys the growth permanently. 1-2 treatments is needed. There is no downtime and it is well tolerated with minimal discomfort. I have been using this type of laser in my practice since 1999.
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Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin
Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients.
Board certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for approval of new drugs and devices and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.
