Birth Marks

What are birthmarks? 

Birthmarks are areas of discolouration or raised skin that are present at birth or appear shortly after. They vary widely in colour, size, shape, and texture, and may be flat or raised, pigmented or vascular (related to blood vessels). 

Most birthmarks are harmless and don’t require treatment. Some people explore management options based on their individual preferences or if the area becomes uncomfortable. Some marks may need medical assessment if they change or become uncomfortable.

Types of Birthmarks 

Birthmarks fall into two main categories: pigmented and vascular. 

Pigmented Birthmarks 

Associated with differences in blood vessels near the surface of the skin. 

• Café-au-lait spots 
  Light brown, flat patches that resemble milky coffee. Often harmless, but multiple spots may warrant medical review. 

• Congenital melanocytic naevi (CMN) 
  Moles that are present at birth. They vary in size and may be flat or raised. Larger CMN carry a small risk of malignancy, so regular review with a qualified healthcare professional is recommended.

• Mongolian spots 
  Blue-grey patches typically seen in babies with deeper skin tones, usually on the lower back or buttocks. These often fade by school age.

Vascular Birthmarks 

Caused by abnormal blood vessels near the surface of the skin. 

• Salmon patches (stork bites or angel kisses) 
  Faint pink or red marks, often on the eyelids, forehead, or back of the neck. Common in newborns and usually fade within a few years. 

• Infantile haemangiomas 
  Raised, bright red marks that grow rapidly in early infancy and often shrink over time. A medical review may be recommended if they interfere with vision, breathing, or feeding.

• Port-wine stains (capillary malformations) 
  Flat, pink to deep red or purple marks that do not fade with time. Often found on the face or neck. These may darken or thicken with age and sometimes benefit from long term monitoring or management. 

Why do birthmarks form? 

The exact cause of birthmarks is not always clear. They are not caused by anything the mother did during pregnancy. 

Common contributing factors include: 

Factor #1 – Genetics 
Some birthmarks, particularly pigmented ones, may be inherited or occur more frequently in certain families. 

Factor #2 – Cell overgrowth 
An overproduction of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) or blood vessels in one area may lead to visible skin changes present at birth.

Factor #3 – Vascular development 
Vascular birthmarks occur when small blood vessels form differently during early development in the womb. 

Factor #4 – Ethnic background 
Some types of birthmarks, like Mongolian spots, are more common in people with darker skin tones. 

Factor #5 – Unknown causes 
In many cases, no clear reason is found. Birthmarks are a normal variation in how skin develops. 

Do birthmarks always need treatment? 

No. Many birthmarks are harmless and fade on their own. Treatment is typically considered when a birthmark: 

• Causes functional concerns (e.g. affecting vision or movement) 

• Grows rapidly or changes in colour, shape, or texture 

• Causes concern for the individual based on personal preference.

• Is located in an area that the individual wishes to discuss with a practitioner. 

Always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure whether a birthmark needs monitoring or further assessment. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can birthmarks be removed completely? 
A: Some people explore options such as laser or surgery. A qualified healthcare professional can assess the area and explain what outcomes may or may not be achievable, as responses vary.

Q: Are birthmarks dangerous? 
A: In some cases, large congenital moles or vascular growths may require monitoring by a doctor.

Q: Do all birthmarks fade with age? 
A: Some, like salmon patches or infantile haemangiomas, may fade or shrink over time. Others, such as port wine stains, tend not to fade and may deepen in colour with age.

Q: Are treatments for birthmarks covered by Medicare in Australia? 
A: If a birthmark causes medical concerns (e.g. impacts function or has risk of malignancy), treatment may be partially covered. Purely cosmetic treatments are not typically eligible. 

Q: Should I get a birthmark checked? 
A: It may be helpful to have a birthmark reviewed if it is changing, growing quickly, bleeding, or if you are unsure what type it is.