Although a birthmark may look bad, few require medical attention and most will go away within a few years.
 
A birthmark is a discolored are of skin that is present at birth or shows up shortly after birth. Birthmarks are very common; in fact more than 80 percent of all babies will have a birthmark. Some birthmarks will last a lifetime, and others will gradually fade away.

The most common birthmarks are considered “vascular” or “pigmented”.
 
A vascular birthmark happens when blood vessels collect under the skin. This type of birthmark is normally pink or red and can sometimes have a blue tint.
 
A pigmented birthmark is caused by abnormal development of pigment cells and is usually brown, gray, blue, or black.
 
While most birthmarks are harmless and do not require medical attention, there are exceptions. If your child has a birthmark, make sure to have your pediatrician or a dermatologist take a look at it.
 
When a birthmark does require medical attention, it is usually because of its location. If the birthmark is near the eye and cheek, there could be vision problems. Other serious conditions have been known to develop from this type of birthmark.  
 
Lower spine birthmarks should be checked by a doctor as well. In this location, birthmarks have been known to affect the nerves and blood flow to the spinal cord.
 
Large moles that are present at birth should also be checked as there is an increased risk of cancer in later life.
 
Lastly, if your child’s birthmark is prominent or disfiguring, you may consider having it removed. The psychological effects of living with such a birthmark can be damaging to a young child.

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