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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.

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What are the best lasers for this condtion

Nd:YAG Laser

(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.

Combined Vascular Laser and BBL Approach

(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:

  • Nd:YAG Laser: For deeper blue or purple visible blood vessels.
  • Vascular-Tailored Settings of Broad-Based Light (BBL): For diffuse redness and widespread visible capillaries.
  • Pulse Dye Laser: (Candela VBeam Perfecta, Excel V Plus) For bright pink surface vessels and fine skin flushing.

Results

Effectively reduces visible veins, diffuse redness, and facial flushing commonly seen in rosacea.

Rejuran (Polynucleotides)

(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.

While each treatment offers its own benefits, the most effective plan depends on your skin type and specific concerns. A consultation with our dermatology team at Scars & Lasers ensures a tailored approach that considers your overall skin health, treatment goals, and any potential risks.

Potential Treatment Protocols

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What are vascular birthmarks?

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.

What are the most common types of vascular birthmarks?

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).

Are vascular birthmarks harmful?

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.

How are vascular birthmarks treated?

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.

Is treatment safe for children and infants?

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.