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Birthmark Removal

Birthmarks can be a significant source of embarrassment for adults and children alike. These markings can also be challenging to treat without the proper expertise and devices that allow for the customization of each treatment to the unique needs of each patient.

Birthmark Removal - What is a Birthmark?

Birthmarks are areas of discolouration on the skin which are present from birth and are often permanent. They may appear as red, pink, purple or brown patches and vary in size. Birthmarks can occur on any part of the body.

Type of Birthmarks

There are two main types of birthmark, pigmented and vascular.

Vascular Birthmarks:

Also called red birthmarks, are caused by abnormal blood vessels in or under the skin, and include macular stains (salmon patches), hemangiomas, and port-wine stains.

Vascular birthmarks are one of the most common types of birthmarks and can be found in all areas of the body. They do not tend to fade or disappear over time.

Port wine stain (capillary malformation birthmarks): Port wine stain appears as wine-coloured patches on the skin. They are caused by abnormal blood vessels and can vary in size. They most commonly occur on the face, back and chest, but can appear anywhere on the body. Most port wine stain birthmarks are permanent and can become more prominent as the years go by.
Strawberry marks (infantile haemangiomas): Strawberry marks are raised, mole-like, pink, red or purple birthmarks. They get their name because of their texture and colour. They are relatively common, affecting around 5% of newborn babies. They usually disappear by the time the child reaches the age of seven, but will first become bigger before they shrink and eventually fade away completely. Some strawberry marks may require birthmark removal treatment; speak to a GP if you are concerned.
Salmon patch birthmarks: Salmon patches are the most common type of vascular birthmark. They appear as faint pink or red patches usually on a baby’s face or neck after birth. Salmon patches tend to fade after a few months, but some may take a few years to disappear completely.

Pigmentation Birthmarks:

are where the skin has too much colour or pigment. Pigmentation birthmarks, also known as ‘Cafe Au Lait’, include some moles, or brown/cream coloured patches of skin. These marks normally fade over time.

Cafe-au-lait spots: Café-au-lait spots are pale, flat coffee-coloured patches of skin. Like most birthmarks, they are harmless, but if a child has more than six of these marks before they reach the age of five years old, it might be a symptom of a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis. Speak to your GP if you are concerned.
Mongolian spots: Mongolian spots are a bluish grey in colour, a bit like a bruise. They are most common in babies with darker skin tones and are usually found on the back or buttocks. These coloured marks usually disappear with time, usually before the child turns four.
Congenital moles: Congenital moles also referred to as congenital melanocytic naevi, are large black or brown marks which are present from birth. They are caused by clusters of melanin beneath the surface of the skin and are quite common. They can become raised or hairy with time and may change colour during hormonal changes, such as during puberty. If you are concerned that your congenital moles have changed shape or colour, consult a dermatologist or your GP.

Birthmark Removal - FAQs

What is the Cause of Birthmarks?

Vascular birthmarks, which are usually red, pink or purple in colour, are caused by an abnormality in the skin’s blood vessels. Brown pigmented birthmarks are usually caused by clusters of melanin (pigment) in the skin.

Is Removal of Birthmarks Possible?

If a birthmark is making you self-conscious, or have lower self-esteem, removal of the birthmark is possible. Yes, most types of birthmarks can be removed with laser or IPL treatments. The laser or IPL used depends upon the type and colour of the birthmark being removed. In some rare cases and depending on the size, surgical excision might be necessary to remove a birthmark.

Birthmark Removal Treatment

Birthmarks can be safely and effectively removed using a special type of laser or IPL. Birthmark removal treatment works by targeting the abnormal blood vessels or areas of pigmentation, breaking them up into tiny fragments so they can be disposed of naturally through the body’s immune system.

The laser is targeted, so although it’s powerful, it won’t damage the surrounding skin. You may need several treatment sessions in order to remove the birthmark completely and results can vary from person to person. Your practitioner will be able to assess your birthmark to ensure the correct type of laser and the right number of treatments is used to remove it.

Technologies Used

Max G

Built on ConBio’s original Q-Switched laser technology, RevLite™ SI is a new-generation Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser. Its multi-wavelength system provides greater efficacy, comfort, versatility, and maximum power (treat a wide range of indications with 60% more power). It works in all skin types.