What types of birthmarks are seen by dermatologists?

Birthmarks are a unique trait to many patients. When you are born, you may have had a mark on the skin. This mark can develop anywhere and may look different depending on the type of birthmark. At Chevy Chase Dermatology, Dr. Margaret Summerville and her team can evaluate a patient to determine the type of birthmark present. In some instances, patients who are unhappy with their birthmark may want to find out if it can be successfully reduced or removed. This requires a visit with our team to discuss your options.

What is a birthmark?

A birthmark is a skin discoloration that can be present at birth or may develop soon after. It can vary in color, shape, size, and may even be flat or raised. They vary in size and can be extremely small or extremely large, covering up a significant portion of a patient’s face or body. In situations such as this, many patients are interested in removal, especially if they are unable to lessen the appearance of the birthmark with cosmetic makeup.

What type of birthmarks can you have?

There are so many different kinds of birthmarks that can be found on the body, and knowing the difference between them will help our dermatologist at Chevy Chase Dermatology determine the best course of treatment to reduce or remove it. Below are just a few of the more commonly seen varieties:

• Vascular birthmarks. Vascular birthmarks are caused by malformation of blood vessels and are often bright or deep red. Some of the more commonly seen types of vascular birthmarks include hemangiomas and port-wine stains.
• Pigmented birthmarks. Pigmented birthmarks are caused by anomalies in skin pigmentation and can range in color from light to dark brown. Three types are found, including moles, café-au-lait macules, and Mongolian spots.
• Non-melanocytic birthmarks. Non-melanocytic birthmarks are those that are a result of extra skin cells or tumor growths in the hair follicles. These are unrelated to pigmentation or blood vessels, and may be called epidermal nevi or nevus sebaceous.

Contact Dr. Margaret Summerville today

At Chevy Chase Dermatology, we are committed to assisting patients in the Chevy Chase, MD area to achieve healthy, beautiful skin. If you are struggling with the appearance of a birthmark and want to learn more about possible reduction or removal, connect with our team today by calling (301) 656-SKIN to book an appointment. We are open to new and returning patients at our facility, located in Suite #830 at 5530 Wisconsin Avenue.

Category: Moles and birthmarks

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