Vascular birthmarks are caused by blood vessels within the skin and can appear as red, pink, purple or darker areas. Some are present from birth, while others become more noticeable during early life.
Port-wine stains are a type of vascular birthmark that typically appear as a flat red, purple or maroon patch. They can occur on the face, neck, scalp or body and may become darker or more noticeable over time.
At Dr Ed Robinson Clinics, we assess the type, colour, depth and location of the vascular birthmark before recommending whether laser treatment may be appropriate.
Understanding Vascular Birthmarks
Vascular birthmarks can vary considerably from person to person. Their appearance depends on the type of blood vessels involved, their depth within the skin and where the birthmark is located.
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Blood Vessels
Vascular birthmarks develop due to changes in the blood vessels within or beneath the skin, which create their characteristic red, pink or purple appearance. -
Port-Wine Stains
Port-wine stains are vascular birthmarks that are usually present from birth and can become darker or more noticeable over time. -
Colour and Depth
The colour and depth of a vascular birthmark can vary, which is why some appear pink or red while others are deeper red, purple or maroon. -
Location
Vascular birthmarks can occur on different areas of the face and body, including the face, neck and scalp.
