Also called angiomas, birthmarks can come in many shapes and colors. While some weaken with age, others spread as you grow older. Medical management of a birthmark is possible to improve the quality of life of the person concerned.

A birthmark is a more or less extensive colored mark that can appear on any part of the body. It is also known under the names angioma or wine spot. Most often, birthmarks are caused by a malformation of the vascular or lymphatic system. This malformation is congenital, that is to say present from birth, and benign.

There are several types of birthmarks. They differ in size, color, shape and appearance. Some are visible from birth, others appear during growth or, more rarely, in adulthood. Birthmarks may disappear during growth. They can also spread. In this case, medical care may be offered.

Birthmarks can take a variety of shapes. Here are the different types of birthmark:

• Moles are a form of birthmarks. Most of the time, they appear during childhood, but sometimes some moles are present at birth. They are then called congenital pigmented nevus and evolve with age. In their so-called “giant” format, they can measure up to 20 centimeters
• Wine stains are angiomas. Red in color, they expand with age and sometimes they thicken. Particularly unsightly, wine stains can appear all over the body, including the face. They do not represent any health risk but can have a psychological impact.
• Another type of birthmark is café au lait. They are not serious but can alert to the existence of a genetic disease if there are too many of them. It is therefore highly recommended to report their presence to your doctor or to contact a dermatologist.
• White spots are also congenital. They are present at birth or appear in the first days of a child’s life. These birthmarks fade with age but never go away
• Mongolian spots are blue in color. They appear during the first weeks of a child’s life. Mongolian spots are most often located on the top of the buttocks and usually disappear around the age of 3 years.
• Strawberries are red colored, raised birthmarks. They are mainly localized on the face and the skull of the child. Strawberries get bigger during the first 6 months of a baby’s life. Between 2 and 7 years old, strawberries fade and then disappear
• Stork bites are pink / orange colored spots that are found on the foreheads of children. They are inconspicuous but can be more visible when a child is crying

Red birthmarks are most often related to a vascular abnormality. They can therefore either be absorbed or spread. In rare cases, these birthmarks are inflamed. Medical treatment is then recommended.

Latte stains and moles are caused by excess melanin. They are not dangerous but should be watched over the years. Indeed, all moles can progress to melanoma.

Finally, white spots are caused by partial depigmentation of the skin.

There are different treatments that are chosen according to the type of birthmark to be taken care of. In the event of angioma, it is possible to reabsorb the stain thanks to a drug treatment, propanolol. On the other hand, it is offered only in the most damaging cases. Laser treatment can also be offered in case of strong aesthetic damage.

In the most problematic cases, such as congenital pigmented nevus, surgery may be offered. It is recommended if the scar promises to be more discreet and less restrictive than the birthmark or if for health reasons, it becomes urgent to remove the mole.

Birthmarks are common. Patience is often the best treatment as many of these spots disappear with age. It is essential to make it clear to younger people that birthmarks can be temporary and over time will disappear. If this is not the case, do not hesitate to consult a specialist to learn about the applicable treatments.

Birthmarks are all different. Their development, treatment or even their appearance vary from one person to another. Do not under any circumstances dramatize and consult a doctor for medical advice.