Birthmarks are typically harmless lesions that can stay the same throughout life, increase in size, or even disappear before adulthood. There are many different kinds of birthmarks.
Congenital moles appear as dark moles at birth and can occur anywhere on the body. Small and medium sized congenital moles are typically harmless. Larger congenital moles are 20 cm or greater and can be associated with an increased risk of melanoma. These moles should therefore be monitored regularly.
Port wine stain is a permament birthmark caused by a malformation of capillaries. They most commonly occur on the face and neck. They often start as light pink, but can become much darker and thicker over time. They can be removed for cosmetic reasons with laser treatments.
Hemagiomas usually appear right after birth and can be rapidly growing. They tend to resolve by the time the child is ten years old. They do not require treatment unless they interfere with vision, breathing, feeding, etc.
Fortunately, many scars can be improved upon using surgery, subcision, laser treatements, intralesional corticosteroid injections and dermabrasion. The best course of action is based on whether the scar in question is a result of trauma, acne, surgery, or keloid. Often, it is best to seek evaluation early on because certain treatments work more effectively on newer scars than those that have been present longer.
