Birthmarks are unique marks that don’t bother many people. However, in cases where they obstruct the body’s functionality or create an unwanted appearance, individuals can seek solutions from a birthmark removal treatment clinic.
The treatment procedure at The Esthetic Clinics may involve completely removing the birthmark or reducing its appearance. Read on to understand the different types of birthmarks, their causes, and treatment options.
Causes of birthmarks
The exact causes of birthmarks haven’t been fully discovered. However, research has revealed the causes of some types of birthmarks to be abnormalities in blood vessels during fetal development. Pigmented birthmarks are also believed to occur as a result of an overgrowth of pigment cells in the skin.
Some birthmarks are also passed down through genetics. In this case, you find that many family members of a certain lineage carry identical birthmarks.
Types of birthmarks
There are two major types of birthmarks, which are also broken down into different types. They include;
- Vascular birthmarks
Hemangiomas: these belong to the vascular birthmarks category and are characterized by red or purple growths that are slightly raised. They are believed to be caused by an abnormal buildup of blood vessels in the skin.
Port-wine stains: these types of birthmarks are categorized by pink, red, or purple marks that appear to be flat. They are also believed to be caused by abnormal blood vessels near the surface of the skin.
Salmon patches; these are also called Angel’s Kisses or Stork Bites and are characterized by flat, light pink, or red patches that appear on the forehead, eyelids, and/or the back of the neck.
- Pigmented birthmarks
Café-au-Lait Spots: Café-au-Lait spots appear to be light brown patches that occur in different sizes and can be found on any part of the body.
Mongolian Spots: these types of birthmarks are characterized by bruise-like marks and are often found on the back or buttocks. They are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
Congenital melanocytic nevi: these are commonly referred to as moles and are usually brown or dark spots. They can vary in size and shape.
Birthmark removal treatment
The Esthetic Clinics offer multiple different types of birthmark removal procedures, including:
Topical treatments: these are the easiest and most convenient birthmark removal treatments for less prominent birthmarks. They include ointments and oils such as bleaching creams and retinoid creams that are applied consistently to gradually lighten pigmentation and birthmarks.
Laser therapy: laser treatments are a common and effective procedure to remove vascular birthmarks. The practitioner uses a laser and focuses the light energy on the targeted and precise birthmark area to break down blood vessels without damaging the surrounding tissues.
Surgical excision: some types of birthmarks may require surgical excision for complete removal. The process involves surgical techniques to remove the birthmark.
Finally
Birthmarks may be considered harmless, but if you decide to remove them, it is important to involve a professional all the way. Seek professional evaluation if you notice any abnormal or rapidly changing birthmarks.
You can consult a certified skin specialist for a proper diagnosis to help rule out any potential health concerns and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
