For the majority, baby birthmarks are nothing to be concerned about by parents. Baby birthmarks are not always present at birth and may take several weeks before they appear. Some of the more common baby birthmarks that are encountered are the strawberry birthmark, the port-wine stain birthmark, stork bite birthmark, and the café au lait birthmark.
Strawberry baby birthmark (Hemangioma)
Hemangioma birthmarks are the most common birthmarks found in infants. These baby birthmarks, which are caused from small blood vessels that grow quickly in the skin, can appear anywhere on the body. Hemangioma birthmarks may appear pink at first appearance and then become redder as they develop. Development of the baby birthmark is generally confined to the first year, and then the birthmark will begin to fade slowly over time.
Typically hemangioma birthmarks will not require medical treatment, however depending on how rapidly they develop or the location of the development of the baby birthmark, treatment may be necessary. Common treatments for hemangioma birthmarks can include medication or laser therapy.
Port-wine stain baby birthmark
The port-wine stain birthmark, unlike the hemangioma birthmark, occurs in deeper layers of the skin and is caused by a vascular malformation. The port-wine stain birthmark is most commonly found in the area of the face or neck, however may also be found in other parts of the body. This permanent baby birthmark begins pink in color but will often change to a red or purple color as the child gets older.
Because of the common location of this baby birthmark being in the area of the face, most port-wine birthmarks are treated medically for cosmetic reasons. Common treatments for the port-wine stain birthmark are laser therapy. In some instances, the port-wine stain birthmark may be associated with other medical conditions and should be evaluated by a physician.
Stork bite baby birthmark
The stork bite baby birthmark may also be referred to as salmon patches or angel kisses and will generally appear near the hairline on an infants neck. Stork bite birthmarks will generally appear as red or pink patches, and although are commonly found at the hairline may also appear on other areas of the face including the eyelids or between the eyes.
Stork bite birthmarks located at the hairline will typically not fade, however if the same birthmark appears in other areas it will generally disappear over time. Since lasting stork bite birthmarks will most often be covered by hair, treatment is not normally called for.
Café au lait baby birthmark
The café au lait baby birthmark is characterized as a darkened patch of skin which may occur on any part of the body. Café au lait birthmarks may appear singularly or in pairs and typically require no method of treatment even though they are permanent birthmarks.
Multiple café au lait baby birthmarks could be a sign of a genetic disorder. If multiple baby birthmarks are discovered, a doctor should be consulted to determine if further testing may be necessary.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic Staff, “Birthmarks”, Mayoclinic.com
