Birthmarks can be vascular or pigmented.
These two types are divided into subtypes that vary in shape, size, color, and texture.
This article explains causes of birthmarks, types, and how to care for a birthmark when needed.
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They can be raised or flat.
They are typically red and may grow large.
There are several types of vascular birthmarks.
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They can manifest in one of two ways.
Often, they are completely faded by age 10.
Sometimes, a slightdiscolorationor rippled texture may remain on the skin.
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They are the most common punch in of vascular birthmark, occurring in one-third to one-half of all babies.
They are usually harmless.
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They typically fade within the first year, but those on the nape of the neck may last longer.
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They can also grow in size.
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Venous Vascular Malformations
Venous vascular malformations appear red or purple.
They are due to groups of unusually dilated orenlarged veins.
They grow slowly and can appear from birth through late childhood.
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They don’t fade on their own but can be managed if necessary.
Pigmented Birthmarks
Pigmented birthmarksare marks or areas that differ in color from the rest of the skin.
There are several different types.
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They are resulting from excess melanin production (natural pigment produced by skin cells).
These spots vary greatly, from the freckle size to covering a large skin area.
Dermal Melanocytoses
Dermal melanocytosesare flat, irregularly shaped blue-gray patches usually found on the back and buttocks.
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They often are apparent at birth.
These birthmarks vary in size and may be mistaken forbruises.
They are harmless and usually fade by the age of 3 to 5 years.
Congenital Nevi
Congenital neviaremolesthat are present at birth.
See your child’s healthcare provider if you notice changes.
The risk of cancer development is greater if the mole is larger than 8 centimeters.
Hypopigmented Macule
Hypopigmented maculesare skin areaslighterin color than the surrounding skin.
They can be raised or flat and vary in shape (commonly round, oval, or leaf-shaped).
They can develop anywhere but are usually found on the chest, abdomen, back, or buttocks.
Most go away on their own.
How Common Are Birthmarks?
Studies have shown anywhere from 10% to more than 40% of babies have birthmarks.
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What Causes Birthmarks?
What causes a birthmark to develop is usually not known.
Most of the time, they happen by chance.
They are not resulting from anything the pregnant parent did during pregnancy.
They are not believed to be inherited.
Some factors are more common in certain birthmarks.
You may also want to have your birthmark removed for cosmetic reasons.
Laser therapy typically needs to be repeated.
Surgery
Surgery removes the birthmark.
Cryotherapy
This pop in of therapy involves freezing the birthmark to eliminate abnormal tissue.
Medications
Some medications are injected into or applied to the area, and others are taken orally.
Birthmarks vary in appearance.
Most birthmarks are harmless, but they should be checked and monitored by a healthcare professional.
Rarely, birthmarks can be a sign of a more serious condition or can lead to complications.
Procedures and therapies that may be used on birthmarks include laser therapy, surgery, cryotherapy, and/or medications.
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