Birthmarks belong to one of two categories. Blood vessels just beneath the skin surface create vascular, or red, birthmarks. Skin coloring that differs from the normal complexion indicates pigmented birthmarks. The cause of most birthmarks is unknown. Doctors should examine all birthmarks when they appear in case treatment is needed.
Hemangiomas
Common vascular birthmarks include hemangiomas. Strawberry hemangiomas, which appear as a small cluster of blood vessels right under the skin, usually occur on the neck and face. Cavernous hemangiomas, which are deeper, typically appear as a reddish-blue mass of tissue. Both types normally don't require treatment, although cortisone can be used to reduce a hemangioma if it interferes with sight, blocks a vital organ or grows quickly. Hemangiomas usually disappear on their own in early childhood.
Salmon Patches
According to the National Institutes of Health, 30 to 50 percent of newborns have flat, pink spots known as salmon patches or stork bites. These vascular birthmarks typically appear on the forehead, back of the neck, eyelids and upper lip and can show up more during crying or temperature changes. They usually become fainter as babies get older, although patches on the back of the neck might not fade. Treatment is not required for these birthmarks.
Port Wine Stains
Port wine stains start out as flat, pink discolorations that change to dark red or purple with age. They usually appear on the face and range in size from small to very large. Laser surgery can be used to remove these otherwise permanent vascular birthmarks and is more successful when done at a younger age. Other methods include freezing and traditional surgical removal. Port wine stains can cause psychological and social distress due to their appearance. In rare cases, facial stains might be associated with a neurological condition called Sturge-Weber syndrome.
Cafe-au-Lait Spots
Café-au-lait spots, which are a light tan color, are sometimes associated with neurofibromatosis. This inherited disorder results in an overgrowth of tissue along the nerves and can lead to severe nerve damage. Having six or more spots that are wider than 1.5 cm could indicate the presence of this disorder. Otherwise, one or two small spots are commonly seen and cause no harm. Treatment is generally not required. Cosmetics can be used to cover up these pigmented birthmarks.
Moles
Moles commonly appear after birth and consist of clusters of colored skin cells. The physical appearance of these pigmented birthmarks varies; some can contain hair. Congenital navi, or large moles present at birth, carry a higher risk of leading to malignant melanoma, or skin cancer. Moles that change in color, texture or size should be checked by a doctor for cancerous skin cells. Moles can be surgically removed for cosmetic or medical reasons.
Mongolian Spots
Mongolian spots, which are bluish or bruised-looking flat patches, often appear on the buttocks or lower back. They can also show up in other areas such as the arms or trunk. These pigmented birthmarks can remain for months or even years, but are usually faded or gone by the time a child reaches school age. They occur more often in darker-skinned babies and do not require treatment.
