A birthmark is a congenital, benign irregularity on the skin which is present at birth or appears shortly after birth, usually in the first month. They can occur anywhere on the skin. Birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of blood vessels, melanocytes, smooth muscle, fat, fibroblasts, or keratinocytes.
Treatment. While you can leave most birthmarks alone, it’s important to see a dermatologist soon after you notice a birthmark. Some birthmarks can cause a problem later on. Treatment can prevent that.
The safest and most effective treatment varies with the birthmark and child. Our doctors may recommend one or more of the following:
- Watch birthmark
- Biopsy the birthmark if there are suspicious features
- Excise the birthmark
- Laser to remove the birthmark
- Beta-blocker medicine
- Camouflage the birthmark
