Birthmarks are common, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore changes in color, size, or texture. Some birthmarks fade over time, while others become more noticeable or raise medical concerns. At Hollywood Dermatology in Broward County, Florida, our board-certified dermatologists evaluate and treat all types of birthmarks using advanced clinical and cosmetic techniques tailored to your skin.
Our South Florida practice offers the full spectrum of dermatologic care, from medical evaluations to cosmetic treatments. With five convenient locations, our experienced physicians and medical team provide personalized care for children, teens, and adults.Â
What Are Birthmarks?
A birthmark is a colored mark on or under a newborn baby’s skin. Some birthmarks show up soon after a baby is born. Most birthmarks are obvious at birth. Some kinds of birthmarks fade or go away as a child gets older. Others stay the same or get bigger.
There are many kinds of birthmarks. They can be any size or shape, and can be different colors, such as brown, tan, black, blue, pink, white, red, or purple. Some birthmarks are smooth, and some are raised.
What Causes Birthmarks?
Some birthmarks are from extra color (pigment) in the skin. Other birthmarks are blood vessels that are bunched together or do not grow normally. It is not clear why some children have birthmarks and others do not.
What Kinds of Birthmarks Are There?
The different types of birthmarks include:
- Salmon patches are thin, flat, light pink or red birthmarks. They tend to be on the back of the neck, the upper eyelids, the upper lip, or between the eyebrows.
- Congenital moles can grow anywhere on the body. They vary in size and shape. Most are brown.
- Café au lait spots are smooth, oval birthmarks. They range in color from light brown to chocolate brown and are usually found on the torso, buttocks, and legs.
- Mongolian spots are smooth, brown, or blue-gray birthmarks. They are often uneven in shape and are on the lower back and buttocks.
- Hemangiomas are raised birthmarks. They are blue, red, or purple. They are clumps of blood vessels that did not grow normally. Hemangiomas grow in many shapes and sizes and can grow on the skin or deeper in the body.
- Port-wine stains are birthmarks that are pink-red at birth and then become a darker red-purple. Port-wine stains are blood vessels that did not grow normally. They can be small or they can cover a large area of the body.
Is It Important to Have Birthmarks Checked?
Although most birthmarks are harmless, some are not. If you see a birthmark on your baby, make sure one of our doctors has seen it. If a birthmark grows, bleeds, hurts, or gets infected, call to schedule a visit and have it checked.
How Can I Get Rid of a Birthmark?
There are a variety of methods that can be used to treat, lessen the appearance of, or, in some cases, remove birthmarks.Â
Services offered for cosmetic treatment or laser removal for birthmarks include:
CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing uses focused light energy to gently remove thin layers of skin. This treatment works well for certain raised or textured birthmarks by precisely vaporizing abnormal tissue while stimulating new collagen production. As the skin heals, the treated area often becomes smoother and more even in tone and texture.
IPL Laser Skin Resurfacing
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy delivers controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light into the skin. The light targets excess pigment or visible blood vessels within certain types of birthmarks, helping break them down so the body can gradually clear them away. Over a series of treatments, IPL can reduce redness or discoloration and create a more balanced skin appearance.
For more options, consult our clinical and cosmetic dermatologists.
Why Choose Hollywood Dermatology?
Choosing the right dermatology team matters when it comes to evaluating and treating birthmarks. At Hollywood Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists bring years of clinical experience in diagnosing both common and complex skin conditions. We take the time to carefully examine each birthmark, explain what it means for your health, and recommend treatment only when it makes sense for you or your child.
Our dermatology practice offers clinical, surgical, and cosmetic services under one roof, which means you have access to comprehensive care in one place. From detailed skin evaluations to advanced laser treatments, our experienced physicians and medical staff focus on safe, effective results. And with five locations, we make it easier to get expert care close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions
At What Age Can Birthmark Removal Treatment Begin?
The right age depends on the type of birthmark and whether it causes medical or cosmetic concerns. Some vascular birthmarks respond well to laser treatment in infancy or early childhood, while others may be treated later. Our dermatologists evaluate each case individually and recommend the safest timing based on your child’s age, skin type, and the characteristics of the birthmark.
Will a Birthmark Grow as My Child Grows?
Some birthmarks grow proportionally as your child grows, while others may thicken, darken, or become more raised over time. Certain vascular birthmarks, such as hemangiomas, often enlarge during early infancy before gradually shrinking.
How Many Laser Treatments Are Typically Needed to See Results?
The number of treatments varies based on the size, depth, color, and type of birthmark. Many patients need a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to see gradual improvement. During your consultation, we outline a personalized treatment plan and set clear expectations for results.
Is Birthmark Removal Painful?
Most laser treatments cause mild discomfort rather than significant pain. Patients often describe the sensation as a quick snapping feeling against the skin. For children or more sensitive areas, we may use cooling devices or topical numbing medication to keep the treatment comfortable.
Will Insurance Cover Birthmark Evaluation or Removal?
Insurance often covers medical evaluation of a birthmark, especially if it shows changes such as growth, bleeding, or discomfort. Coverage for removal depends on whether the treatment is considered medically necessary or cosmetic. Our team can help you understand your benefits and discuss options before moving forward.
Are There Risks or Side Effects With Laser Birthmark Treatment?
Laser treatments are generally safe when performed by board-certified dermatologists. Temporary redness, swelling, or mild irritation are common after treatment. In rare cases, changes in skin pigment or scarring may occur. We carefully assess your skin and use appropriate settings to minimize risk.
Can Birthmarks Come Back After Treatment?
Some birthmarks respond permanently to treatment, while others may lighten but not disappear completely. In certain cases, additional sessions may be needed to maintain results.
Contact Us Today
If you are looking for a dermatology practice that specializes in birthmark evaluation and treatment, please use the form on this page to schedule a consultation at Hollywood Dermatology or call us at 954.961.1200 or visit our contact page for information about our South Florida locations in Hollywood, Doral, Pembroke Pines, Hallandale, and West Miramar.
