Birthmarks are coloured patches or raised spots on the skin that appear at birth or within the first few weeks of life. They are very common — about 1 in 10 newborns has at least one. Most birthmarks are completely harmless and fade on their own over time. However, some types need monitoring, and a few may require treatment.
What Causes Birthmarks?
The exact cause of most birthmarks is not fully understood. Experts believe genetics plays a role. If one of your parents has a particular mark on their body, there is a good chance you or your child may develop a similar one.
Some birthmarks form because of an overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin. Others result from an extra concentration of melanin — the pigment that gives skin its colour. In either case, the process usually begins before birth, during fetal development.
Birthmarks are more common in premature babies than in full-term newborns. However, even in premature babies, most marks fade as the child grows. Therefore, early appearance does not always mean a serious problem.
Types of Birthmarks: Hyperpigmented and Vascular
Doctors generally divide birthmarks into two main groups: pigmented birthmarks and vascular birthmarks. Pigmented marks appear darker than the surrounding skin. Vascular marks involve blood vessels and often appear red, pink, or purple.
Both types can vary widely in size, shape, and location. Some are flat against the skin, while others are raised. Some cover a small area, and others can be quite large. The Mayo Clinic provides a helpful overview of birthmark types and their characteristics.
Capillary Hemangiomas
Capillary hemangiomas are one of the most common vascular birthmarks. They are sometimes called “strawberry marks” because of their bright red colour and bumpy surface. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most often found on the scalp, face, back, and chest.
These marks form from tightly packed, fine blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface. They may not be visible at birth, but can appear within the first few weeks of life. Their growth can be rapid and sometimes dramatic in the early months.
Capillary hemangiomas can grow quite large — sometimes up to 20 centimetres across. However, the good news is that over 90% of them fade completely by age 9. After they disappear, the skin may be slightly lighter in colour than the surrounding area or have a somewhat rougher texture.
Cavernous Hemangiomas
Cavernous hemangiomas — also called cavernous angiomas — are similar to capillary hemangiomas but form in the deeper layers of the skin. They can also develop in internal organs such as the liver, lungs, or digestive tract. When they appear on the skin, the surface may look raised and show a reddish-purple colour.
Because they sit deeper in the skin, cavernous hemangiomas are sometimes harder to spot. They may feel soft or spongy to the touch. In most cases, they are benign and do not cause health problems.
Port Wine Stains
Port wine stains are flat, reddish-purple patches that are present from birth. They get their name from their deep wine-like colour. Unlike hemangiomas, port wine stains do not fade on their own. In fact, they may darken and thicken over time.
Port wine stains are caused by abnormally dilated blood vessels just under the skin’s surface. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most noticeable on the face and neck. In some cases, port wine stains on the face may be linked to underlying conditions that a doctor should assess.
Café-au-Lait Spots
Café-au-lait spots are smooth, flat patches that range in colour from light tan to dark brown — much like the colour of coffee with milk. They are a type of pigmented birthmark and are very common. Having one or two is usually nothing to worry about.
However, having six or more café-au-lait spots, especially if they are larger than 1.5 centimetres, may be a sign of a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis. In that case, a family doctor should be consulted for further evaluation.
Mongolian Blue Spots
Mongolian blue spots are bluish-grey flat patches that most often appear on the lower back or buttocks. They are more common in babies with darker skin tones — including those of Asian, Indigenous, African, and South Asian heritage. These spots are completely harmless and typically fade during the first few years of life.
Do Birthmarks Need Treatment?
Most birthmarks do not require any treatment at all. They either fade on their own or remain harmless throughout a person’s life. However, some situations do call for medical attention.
Treatment may be considered if a birthmark is located near the eye and affects vision. It may also be recommended if the mark causes a condition called dry eye (xerophthalmia), or if it is causing a child emotional distress due to its appearance. In addition, if a hemangioma affects internal organs, a specialist’s care is needed.
When treatment is required, options may include laser therapy, medication, or in rare cases, surgery. Your child’s doctor will help determine the best approach based on the type, size, and location of the birthmark. Healthline offers a detailed guide on birthmark treatment options.
Birthmarks and Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being
A large or visible birthmark — especially on the face — can affect how a child feels about their appearance. Children with noticeable marks may face teasing or social exclusion at school. This can have a real impact on their self-esteem and behaviour.
Parents and caregivers can help by talking openly with their child about their birthmark. Reassuring them that it does not define who they are is important. If a child is showing signs of distress or social withdrawal, speaking with a family doctor or school counsellor is a helpful first step.
In some cases, treatment of a highly visible birthmark — even when not medically necessary — may be recommended to support a child’s emotional health. Canadian provincial health plans may cover treatment in certain circumstances, particularly if there is a medical or documented psychosocial need.
When to See a Doctor About Birthmarks
Most birthmarks are discovered at birth or shortly after, and your health-care provider will likely note them during routine check-ups. However, there are specific situations where you should seek advice sooner.
Visit your family doctor or a walk-in clinic if you notice any of the following:
A birthmark that grows rapidly or changes in shape, colour, or texture
A mark near the eye, ear, or airway
A birthmark that bleeds, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection
Six or more café-au-lait spots larger than 1.5 centimetres
A port wine stain on the face, especially around the eye or forehead
Signs that a hemangioma may be affecting internal organs
Your family doctor can refer you to a dermatologist or paediatric specialist if needed. In Canada, these referrals are typically covered under your provincial health plan. Health Canada provides resources on accessing skin health care in your province.
Always consult a qualified health-care provider before making any decisions about treating a birthmark, particularly in children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Birthmarks
Are birthmarks hereditary?
Birthmarks may have a genetic component, though this is not yet fully proven. If a parent has a particular birthmark, there is a higher chance their child may develop a similar one. However, many birthmarks appear with no family history at all.
Do birthmarks go away on their own?
Many birthmarks, especially hemangiomas, fade significantly or disappear entirely as a child grows. For example, over 90% of capillary hemangiomas resolve by age 9. However, some birthmarks such as port wine stains are permanent and will not fade without treatment.
Are birthmarks dangerous or a sign of cancer?
The vast majority of birthmarks are benign and pose no health risk. Hemangiomas, in particular, do not become cancerous. However, any birthmark that changes rapidly in size, colour, or texture should be assessed by a doctor as a precaution.
Can birthmarks be removed in Canada?
Yes, several treatment options are available in Canada, including laser therapy and medication. Whether your provincial health plan covers removal depends on the type of birthmark and whether there is a medical indication. Your family doctor can discuss your options and make a referral if appropriate.
What is the difference between a hemangioma and a port wine stain?
Both are vascular birthmarks, but they behave differently. A hemangioma involves a growth of blood vessel cells and typically fades over time. A port wine stain is a flat patch caused by dilated blood vessels and is usually permanent, often darkening with age.
When should I take my child to a doctor about a birthmark?
You should see a family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic if your child’s birthmark grows quickly, changes appearance, bleeds, or is located near the eye or airway. It is also worth getting checked if your child has six or more café-au-lait spots, as this can sometimes indicate an underlying condition.
Key Takeaways
Birthmarks are very common, affecting about 1 in 10 newborns in Canada.
They fall into two main categories: pigmented birthmarks (such as café-au-lait spots) and vascular birthmarks (such as hemangiomas and port wine stains).
Most birthmarks are completely harmless and fade as a child grows older.
Genetics may play a role, but the exact cause is not always known.
Treatment is available and may be covered by your provincial health plan when medically necessary.
See your family doctor or a walk-in clinic if a birthmark changes rapidly, affects vision, bleeds, or causes your child distress.
Always consult a health-care professional before pursuing treatment for any type of birthmark.
