• Birthmarks

Everything You Need to Know About Birthmarks

Medically reviewed and edited by Dina Whiteaker, APRN

Although more than 10% of newborns have birthmarks, their appearance can still be startling and concerning to parents. 

These marks are usually nothing to worry about, but it’s important to understand when you might need to consult your pediatrician to prevent future complications. 

In this article, we’ll discuss everything you should know about birthmarks, including signs that may require medical treatment, to help you safeguard your family’s health.

What are Birthmarks?

Birthmarks are unique and harmless markings on the skin that are present when you’re born or develop shortly afterward.

They usually vary in size, shape, color, and texture and may occur anywhere on the body.

It’s uncommon for adults to develop birthmarks. If you notice any new marks on the skin as an adult, it’s wise to have them assessed by your doctor.

Different Types of Birthmarks

Birthmarks are usually divided into two categories: vascular and pigmented. Each type has unique characteristics, appearances, and health implications.

Vascular birthmarks

These birthmarks develop when blood vessels grow abnormally under the skin. This gives them a red, purple, or pink color.

Different vascular birthmarks include:

• Macular stains (salmon patches): These are pink or red marks that may appear anywhere on the body and disappear with age. Angel’s kisses (located on the forehead, nose, upper lip, or eyelid) or stork bites (located on the back of the neck) are the most common.

• Hemangioma: This is a common vascular birthmark that grows rapidly in the first nine months of life. They typically start as small red marks that form a raised, sponge-like mass on the body. 

• Nevus flammeus or port-wine stain birthmarks: This is a flat mark with a pink, red, or purple color that typically appears on the face, arms, and legs. Port-wine stains don’t fade with age and continue to grow as the child does. 

Pigmented birthmarks

Pigmented birthmarks form when pigment cells develop in a cluster on the skin. This gives them a distinct brown color that is often visible at birth.

Different types of pigmented birthmarks include:

• Moles (congenital nevi): These are the most common form of pigmented birthmarks and are found in around 1% of newborns. They can range from small and flat to large and slightly raised. 

• Café-au-lait spots: These are light to dark brown marks with an oval shape and smooth texture. They can appear anywhere on the body and are typically present at birth. 

• Mongolian spots (MS): These are bluish or blue-gray spots most commonly found on the buttocks or lower back. They are usually more prevalent in Asian, Hispanic, or African individuals with darker skin. Mongolian spots will also fade completely with age.

What Causes Birthmarks?

While the causes of birthmarks are not fully understood, they are thought to arise from genetic factors and developmental conditions during pregnancy.

Developmental causes during pregnancy

The majority of birthmarks occur during fetal development and are visible at birth or within the first few months of life.

The specific causes during pregnancy remain unclear, but researchers are currently exploring the following theories:

• Vascular birthmarks: These are typically caused by imbalances in the development of blood vessels. For example, port-wine stains occur when capillaries under the skin don’t form correctly. This leads to an accumulation of blood vessels, which causes visible discoloration.

• Pigmented birthmarks: These develop from clusters of pigment cells that don’t spread evenly as the skin forms. For example, Mongolian spots are thought to be caused by melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) that get trapped in the deeper skin layers during fetal development.

Other factors

During pregnancy, there may also be other factors at play that could cause a birthmark to develop. These include: 

• Environmental influences: Some research suggests that factors like diet and medication might influence birthmark formation.

• Hormonal factors: Hormone changes could influence the behavior of cells that are involved in skin pigment production or the formation of blood vessels. This could increase the chance of birthmarks forming.

Genetic factors

Some birthmarks — especially pigmented ones like congenital nevi (moles) — are usually influenced by genetic predispositions.

These can be inherited, indicating a hereditary component.

However, most birthmarks don’t seem to follow a clear genetic pattern and are random occurrences without a direct familial link.

Myths and Misconceptions About Birthmarks

There are many myths surrounding birthmarks that may lead to unnecessary stigma and anxiety toward others. Let’s take a look at what research says.

Myth 1: Birthmarks are a sign of past lives 

One of the oldest myths is that birthmarks reflect experiences or desires from a past life; however, there is no scientific evidence to support these superstitions.

Birthmarks are simply concentrations of melanin or blood vessels and are not influenced by maternal experiences or past life events.

Myth 2: All birthmarks grow and cause health problems

While it is true that some types of birthmarks may grow rapidly in the first months of a child’s life, many remain the same size or fade with time.

Most birthmarks are also harmless and don’t require medical intervention.

Only a small percentage of birthmarks may lead to complications and require treatment, usually due to their size, location, or type.

Myth 3: Birthmarks can’t be treated

There are several effective treatments available to remove or reduce the appearance of birthmarks.

Techniques such as laser treatment, medications, and surgery can be used to reduce or remove birthmarks, depending on their type and severity.

Myth 4: Every dark spot is a birthmark

Other skin anomalies — like freckles, age spots, and sunspots — are often mistaken for birthmarks.

For example, freckles are typically smaller, appear in areas exposed to sunlight, and may fade or intensify based on sun exposure.

Understanding the differences is important for knowing when to consult your doctor or seek treatment for a skin condition.

Can Birthmarks Be Removed?

Determining when treatment is necessary

While most birthmarks are harmless and don’t require medical or surgical intervention, they sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. 

Treating a birthmark is usually based on several factors – including cosmetic reasons and associated health risks.

You should consult your doctor or dermatologist for a professional birthmark assessment if you have any concerns. 

They can determine if there are any health risks associated with your birthmark and advise you on how to mitigate them.

Non-invasive treatment options

Many non-invasive treatments are available for managing birthmarks, especially vascular variations. These treatment options include:

• Laser therapy: This is one of the most common treatments for removing or reducing the appearance of vascular birthmarks. Laser treatments work by emitting focused light that is absorbed by blood vessels inside the birthmark. This causes them to collapse and fade over time. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

• Medications: Certain types of birthmarks — like hemangiomas — can be treated with medication. Propranolol is commonly prescribed to reduce the size of these birthmarks because it slows blood vessel growth.

Surgical options

Surgery may be recommended for birthmarks that are either too large, potentially harmful, or ones that have not responded to other treatments. Common procedures may include:

• Surgical removal: This is an option when the mark is localized or relatively small. It’s often used for raised birthmarks or those that carry a risk of malignancy — such as suspicious moles.

• Skin grafting: In cases where a large area of the skin is affected, and the birthmark is surgically removed, skin grafting may be required to restore the skin’s appearance.

Should You See a Doctor About Your Birthmark?

Most birthmarks are harmless and don’t require a doctor’s consultation. However, it’s important to be aware of the circumstances that may require professional care.

Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• A rapid change in the appearance of your birthmark

• Birthmarks located around the eyes, nose, or mouth

• Symptoms such as pain, itching, bleeding, or oozing from the birthmark

• Personal or family history of skin conditions, including skin cancer

Consulting your doctor under these circumstances can help you rule out any potential issues or allow you to get prompt treatment.

This helps you to avoid any serious complications that could affect your overall quality of life.

Where Can You Learn More About Skin Conditions Like Birthmarks?

While LifeMD provides comprehensive telehealth services, certain procedures –  like the removal of a birthmark – require in-person medical care.

This being said, we can help you determine if this is necessary and assist you in managing any unpleasant symptoms you may be experiencing.

A team of medical professionals can help you with lab orders, medications, prescriptions, and advice to live with your birthmark.

Make your appointment today and take control of your health — all from the comfort of your own home.

Dina Whiteaker, APRN

Dina earned her MSN from the University of Nebraska Medical Center before becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has 10ᐩ years of telemedicine experience. Dina is board certified and is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

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