Birthmarks

Vascular Birthmarks:

• 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 on all areas of the body. They do not tend to fade or disappear over time.

Salmon Patches or Stork Marks

• Flat, red or pink areas of the skin
• Normally located on the eyelids, head or neck
• Often fade by the age of 2
• Can take longer to fade if they’re on the back of the head or neck

Strawberry Marks or Haemangiomas

• These are blood vessels that form a raised red lump on the skin
• More common in girls
• Grow for the first 6-12 months and then shrink and disappear by the age of 7
• Can appear under the skin

Port Wine Stains

• Red, purple or dark marks
• Usually on the face and neck
• Normally only affects one side of the body but in some cases can affect both sides
• Can become darker and lumpier if not treated

Pigmentation Birthmarks:

• 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.

Café-au-lait Spots

• Flat, light or dark brown patches
• Are very common with most people having around 1-2
• Can come in different shapes and sizes

Blue-grey Spots

• Can look like a bruise
• Normally located on the lower back, bottom, arms or legs
• Will normally go around the age of 4

Beckers Naevi is another type of birthmark that’s actually classed as a lesion. They can be raised, black and hairy.

Congenital Moles or Congenital Melancytic Naevi

• Brown or black moles which are caused by an overgrowth of pigment in the skin
• These can become darker, raised or hairy
• Might need to be looked at by a GP if they’re large or change shape

Causes

• Genetic
• Develop after birth

Treatments

We are only able to treat certain birthmarks. We have a couple treatments that we use that can treat certain birthmarks these are:

Cultera Laser Genesis – This is one of the most advanced non-invasive rejuvenation treatments available. It provides a gentle option to treat a variety of skin conditions.

The heat from the laser coagulates the blood at the surface of the skin. Your body then recognises this as waste and breaks it down to get rid of it. Once the darker coagulated blood has been dispersed through the lymphatic system the birthmark will be lighter in colour. We advise patients to have multiple treatments to get the best results.

Excision – In some cases we would need to surgically remove your birthmark. This would involve cutting the birthmark out and stitching it back up.

If you are concerned or self-conscious about a birthmark and would like to talk to our doctor about the options for removal, please call us and book a consultation.

Why choose Zenith Cosmetic Clinic for Birthmarks Treatments?

• All consultations and reviews are included in the price
• All consultants are UK trained
• Rated as outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in providing care to our patients in a safe and effective manner.
• Registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
• Full member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM)

FAQ’s

Are birthmarks genetic?

Birthmarks might be inherited however every birthmark is different. You may have similar birthmarks to other family members but it won’t be identical.

Do birthmarks stay the same size?

Each individual birthmark is different. Some may change shape, grow, shrink or even disappear over time.

Why are we born with birthmarks?

Birthmarks are caused by extra pigment on the skin or by blood vessels that group together. The cause of the birthmark is unknown and genuinely most birthmarks are harmless and don’t require any treatment.

When would a birthmark need to be looked at?

Keep an eye on your birthmarks. Look for changes in size, elevation of the mole (if it raises further out of the skin) or changes in colour. If you notice any abnormal changes we advise to speak to your local GP to discuss your next step.

Is birthmark removal painful?

No. The treatments to remove birthmarks are not painful.

Is birthmark removal permanent?

Yes, however in some cases they can grow back.

How long does the Genesis procedure take?

Depending on the advice of your therapist from 30-60 minutes.

Does Laser Genesis hurt?

No, not at all! We all refer to this treatment as more of a facial, and more patients report feeling comfortable and relaxed during their procedure with no associated pain.

What areas can be treated with Laser Genesis for men?

Any part of the body can be treated with Laser Genesis, but the most common area is the face and neck. If you have other areas of your body with noticeable signs of ageing, sun damage or scarring, arrange your consultation and we can discuss whether this treatment is suitable for you.

What does the Laser Genesis procedure feel like?

Most people find having Laser Genesis to be a relaxing experience. At Zenith Cosmetic Clinic, we refer to this treatment as our laser facial as it feels more like a facial than an intense laser treatment. Cutera Laser Genesis gently warms the skin to a temperature of no discomfort and you can expect to return to your daily activities as normal straight after the treatment.