Birthmarks in Children: Types, Causes & When to Seek Care

Birthmarks are incredibly common in babies and children—most are harmless and fade with time. These unique skin markings can appear as flat patches, raised bumps, or areas of discoloration. While many are simply cosmetic, a few types may require monitoring or treatment depending on their size, location, or behavior over time.

This article walks you through the different types of birthmarks, explains what causes them, and helps you understand which ones are no cause for concern—and which ones may need a pediatrician’s attention. With the right knowledge, you can feel confident caring for your child’s skin and development.

About This Resource

Wondering if your baby’s birthmark is something to worry about? You’re not alone. This guide was created to help parents understand the types of birthmarks, what causes them, and when to seek medical advice.

Common Types of Birthmarks in Children

Vascular Birthmarks

Salmon Patches (Angel Kisses/Stork Bites)

Light pink or red patches that often appear on the forehead, eyelids, upper lip, or back of the neck. They’re flat and harmless, usually fading by age 1–2 without treatment.

Strawberry Hemangiomas

Bright red, raised bumps that may appear in the first weeks of life. These are more common in girls and premature babies. While they often grow quickly in the first year, most shrink and fade on their own over time.

Port-Wine Stains

Flat, dark red or purple patches that persist and may grow with the child. Found on the face, head, or limbs. They may thicken over time and are sometimes linked to syndromes like Sturge-Weber. Laser treatment may reduce their appearance.

Pigmented Birthmarks

Café-au-Lait Spots

Light brown patches that resemble coffee with milk. One or two are usually harmless, but multiple spots may warrant further evaluation to rule out genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis.

Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (Moles Present at Birth)

Brown or black moles that can be flat or raised. Larger ones may require dermatology follow-up, especially if they change in size, shape, or color.

Mongolian Spots

Blue-gray patches often found on the lower back or buttocks, more common in babies with darker skin tones. These are completely harmless and usually fade by early childhood.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician

While most birthmarks are completely benign, you should contact your pediatrician if:

• A birthmark is growing rapidly, changing in color, or becoming painful

• Your child has multiple café-au-lait spots (more than 6 larger than 5mm)

• A port-wine stain is located near the eye or forehead

• The skin over a birthmark breaks down or bleeds

• You’re concerned about cosmetic appearance or psychological impact

Your doctor may refer you to a pediatric dermatologist or other specialists if needed.

Diagnosis and Monitoring

Most birthmarks can be diagnosed through a simple visual exam. In some cases—especially for larger, changing, or deep birthmarks—imaging or biopsy may be recommended to assess the depth, vascular involvement, or risk of associated conditions.

Monitoring typically involves regular photographs and checkups, especially during infancy and early childhood when growth is most active.

Treatment Options

Most birthmarks require no treatment and fade over time. For those that do cause problems, treatment may include:

• Topical or oral medications for shrinking hemangiomas

• Laser therapy to reduce vascular birthmarks (especially port-wine stains)

• Surgical removal of large or atypical pigmented birthmarks

• Cosmetic camouflage for older children or teens with visible markings that affect confidence

The decision to treat is based on the mark’s type, location, and potential impact on health or well-being.

Emotional Support for Parents and Kids

Visible birthmarks—especially on the face or limbs—can affect a child’s self-esteem as they grow. It’s important to reassure your child and normalize differences in appearance. If teasing or self-consciousness becomes an issue, talk to your pediatrician or a child psychologist about support options.

You’re also not alone—connecting with other parents or advocacy groups can help you feel supported and informed.

FAQs

Do all babies have birthmarks?
No, but they’re very common. An estimated 1 in 3 babies is born with some type of birthmark.

Will my child’s birthmark go away?
Some types fade completely, especially salmon patches and strawberry hemangiomas. Others may remain or require treatment.

Are birthmarks dangerous?
Most are not. However, certain types—like large moles or port-wine stains—may need monitoring or treatment.

Can birthmarks be prevented?
No. Birthmarks develop naturally and aren’t caused by anything the parent did during pregnancy.