You must have heard of stroke bites, angel kisses, and salmon patch treatment for babies. These marks possess no risk and could be inherited by a baby. However, they might worry the parents upon delivery of their birthmarks in babies.
After the delivery of a baby, a few imperfections that are spotted are labeled as birthmarks. Birthmarks have different colors, shapes, and sizes and can be composed of various types of tissues. The marks have no medical significance. However, it is necessary to diagnose if there is an internal issue.
Let us now go through the different types of birthmarks in babies.
What are the different types of birthmarks in babies?
Below, we have listed the major types of birthmarks in babies:
Stork bites/ salmon patches
A stork bite, also known as a salmon patch, appears on the back of a newborn’s head or neck. It is a cluster of pink to reddish-purple blood vessels (capillaries). Stork bites are usually painless and fade away with time. In fact, they affect about half of the population! In case of severity, parents can seek professional advice for salmon patch treatment.
Port-wine stains
A birthmark known as a port-wine stain is a form of birthmark. As its name suggests, it looks like maroon wine spilled or sprayed over the skin. Though port-wine stains are usually pink at birth, they tend to darken (typically reddish-purple or dark crimson) as the child grows. Sturge–Weber syndrome, a blood vessel disorder that affects the eyes, brain, and skin, can cause port-wine stains in rare cases.
Moles
It is most likely a birthmark; however, it isn’t a major concern. Birth moles in babies are different from those that may appear in adults, but they usually do not cause any harm. Most moles are acquired, which form over time due to sun exposure. They are also known as Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN). About 1% of babies are born with a CMN, but larger or “giant” CMN are rare, i.e., 1 in 50,000.
Causes of birthmarks in babies
Researchers are still unsure why some babies have birthmarks while others do not.
Strawberry marks, however, may be caused by a buildup of cells that line the blood arteries of babies, according to some theories.
As per some doctors, a tiny piece of a placenta may become lodged inside the growing embryo early in the pregnancy, causing birthmarks in newborns.
There’s a danger of port-wine stains if the nerves that govern capillary widening or narrowing are damaged, especially if the capillaries permanently widen in one area.
Furthermore, many experts believe that certain proteins released by the placenta during pregnancy may be connected to an increased risk of acquiring certain birthmarks.
Treatment of birthmarks in babies
Although most birthmarks are harmless, it is suggested to seek medical advice if your newborn has one. If the birthmark causes further problems for your baby, you can opt for treatment.
Even minor port-wine stains on your baby’s cheeks or neck may upset him as they grow older. Port-wine stains can be concealed with specialized make-up. Laser therapy can also lessen the marks, although it will not fully erase them. If your child undergoes the treatment as a teenager or adult, they may experience less scarring.
If your child has a large congenital mole that is bothering them while growing older, surgery might have to be considered. Keep an eye on any big moles they may develop while growing up. If you find a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color, or if it starts to bleed or itch, see your doctor immediately. Parents also look for the best healthcare services online for salmon patch treatment if a birthmark is causing an abnormal appearance or leading to discomfort or health problems in children.
