Senile purpura is a common skin condition seen in older adults. It appears as red, purple, or brownish patches on the skin, most often on the forearms and hands. These patches are caused by fragile blood vessels that break easily, leading to small areas of bleeding under the skin.
Why Does It Happen?
As we age, the skin becomes thinner and loses some of its protective fat and connective tissue. This makes blood vessels more prone to injury, even with minor bumps or pressure. Contributing factors include:
- Natural aging of skin and blood vessels
- Long-term sun exposure
- Use of blood-thinning medicines (like aspirin or anticoagulants)
- Certain medical conditions that affect blood clotting
Symptoms
- Flat, red or purple patches on the skin
- Most common on sun-exposed areas like arms and hands
- Patches do not usually cause pain, itching, or swelling
- Gradually fade to brown before disappearing
Treatment & Care
Senile purpura is generally harmless and does not require major treatment, but care can help reduce its appearance and recurrence:
- Sun protection with clothing and sunscreen
- Gentle skin care to avoid further thinning
- Moisturizers to improve skin resilience
- Medical advice to review blood-thinning medications if bruising is frequent
- Laser or topical treatments may be suggested in selected cases for cosmetic improvement
Key Point
Although senile purpura is not dangerous, it can be distressing for patients. A dermatologist’s guidance helps manage the condition and improve skin health.
