Vascular Birthmark
At a glanceSkin discolouration from improperly formed blood vessels, appearing red, pink or bluish and can be flat (port wine stains) or raised (haemangiomas).
Birthmarks are visible skin changes that either appear at birth or within the first few weeks of life. They can differ in shape, size, and colour, and may be either flat or raised. While most are harmless and gradually fade, some may remain long term and require treatment for aesthetic reasons or due to related symptoms or health risks.
The Science Behind It
Vascular birthmarks form due to irregular development of blood vessels during fetal growth. While the exact cause remains unclear, both genetic and environmental influences may contribute. These birthmarks typically occur sporadically and are not usually inherited.
What are the Most Common Birthmarks and how do they Present?
- Port-Wine Stains Flat marks in shades of pink, red, or purple caused by abnormal capillaries. Common on the face, neck, arms, or legs, and can darken in colour over time.
- Hemangiomas Raised red growths that often appear in infancy, typically growing quickly before gradually reducing in size with age.
- Salmon Patches (Stork Bites / Angel Kisses) Pale pink or red patches that usually fade on their own as the child grows.
Treatment at a Glance
| Treatment Type | Number of Sessions | Procedure Time | Typical Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vbeam® Pulse Dye Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Excel® V+ (long pulse ND.YAG) | 2 - 5 | 5 -15 mins | 7 - 10 Days |
Frequently Asked Questions
These are red or purple marks caused by an overgrowth or malformation of blood vessels. They can appear at birth or develop shortly after, and may vary in size, colour, and depth.
Common types include:
- Port-wine stains (flat, red/purple marks),
- Hemangiomas (raised red lesions that may grow then shrink),
- Salmon patches (light red marks on the face or neck that often fade with time).
Most are harmless and fade over time, but some may require treatment for cosmetic reasons or if they interfere with vision, breathing, or other functions.
Treatment options include:
- Laser therapy (e.g. VBeam®, Excel V®),
- Broadband light (BBL),
- Beta-blocker medications (like propranolol for hemangiomas),
- In rare cases, surgical removal may be considered.
Yes. Laser treatments and medications like propranolol are widely used in paediatric dermatology. Treatments are tailored to age, location, and the size of the lesion, and are performed under specialist care.
Restore clarity and confidence with specialist dermatologist-directed treatment for vascular birthmarks using advanced laser technologies tailored to redness, vessels, and skin tone.
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