They are common, but not dangerous. Bateman's purpura is due to the weakened state of blood vessel walls. Over many years, sunlight damages the skin and underlying blood vessels, making the walls very fragile. Alcohol, aspirin, and prednisone can contribute to the formation of Bateman's purpura. Alcohol and aspirin thin the blood, therefore making it easier to leak into the skin.
Prednisone causes the blood vessel walls to become very fragile.
Cosmetics can be used to camouflage the lesions. Dermablend cosmetics are recommended for dermatologic conditions, such as Bateman's purpura. Dermablend can be bought at Department stores. Covermark Cosmetics are also excellent at covering this condition. Vitamin K cream applied to the skin daily has been shown to improve this condition.