A venous lake is a dilation of venules. It is common and benign. It is most often seen on the lips (especially the lower lip), ears, and face of older adults. Chronic sun exposure, which weakens the vascular adventitia and permits dilation of superficial venous structures, is thought to play a role in the formation of venous lakes. Venous lakes may also be seen on mucosal surfaces. Ninety-five percent of venous lakes occur in men.

Once a lesion has been traumatized, there may be bleeding or tenderness, but these lesions are most often asymptomatic. Venous lakes may be aesthetically displeasing, but they are benign.