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.
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?
(Available on Excel V and Excel V Plus)
Best for
Mild cases or isolated vessels.
How It Works
The long-pulse Nd:YAG laser emits energy at a wavelength absorbed by haemoglobin in blood vessels. This heat causes the targeted vessels to collapse, effectively treating both surface red veins and deeper blue veins.
Results
Treated vessels may disappear immediately or gradually fade over several weeks.
(Candela VBeam Perfecta, Excel V, Excel V Plus, Sciton BBL)
Best for
More severe cases or large areas of visible facial veins and redness, particularly in rosacea.
How It Works
This approach layers multiple vascular-targeting technologies in one session, including:
Results
Effectively reduces visible veins, diffuse redness, and facial flushing commonly seen in rosacea.
(Candela VBeam Perfecta, Excel V, Excel V Plus, Sciton BBL)
Best for
Stimulating collagen and vascular remodelling to reduce persistent skin redness.
How It Works
Often recommended in combination with vascular laser or BBL treatments to enhance skin healing, texture, and redness reduction.
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:
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:
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.