Joel Schlessinger MD describes the appearance of birthmarks that develop in many children.
The birthmark category consists of a large number of different skin concerns that can develop at birth or during early childhood. While many of these marks are harmless and eventually fade over time, there are certain concerns that should be addressed by a dermatologist. In this video, Joel Schlessinger MD describes several common birthmarks and what you can do if your child has one.
Certain birthmarks appear at birth and fade during childhood, explains Joel Schlessinger MD.
One common type of birthmark, nevus flammeus, is characterized by a red patch on an infant’s neck or forehead. This mark often appears when a child is born and is caused by a collection of blood vessels that generally dissipates and fades over time.
Hemangioma, another common birthmark described by Joel Schlessinger MD, appears as a dark red and slightly raised spot. This condition generally continues to grow from birth until the child is one year old. The mark then begins to fade over the next 7-8 years of the child’s life.
According to Joel Schlessinger MD, other types of birthmarks must be examined and treated by a dermatologist.
While most people develop moles later in life, some infants are born with moles known as congenital nevus. Joel Schlessinger MD recommends having these moles examined by a dermatologist to determine whether or not they need to be removed.
Port wine stains often appear as large red areas that can cover part or the entire side of a child’s face. This condition can be treated using laser or light therapy devices that effectively fade the appearance of the mark over time. If your child is born with or develops a birthmark, you should schedule an appointment to visit with a dermatologist.
Watch more videos by Joel Schlessinger MD on his YouTube channel.