Common Black Birthmark Types in Newborns

Types of Birthmarks in Babies

There are 2 common birthmarks that you will find in your baby’s body, and birthmark types in babies belong to one of these two categories.

• Vascular birthmarks:

These are caused due to the improper formation of blood vessels in a baby’s body. An increased number of blood vessels with a wider diameter can lead to formation of these birthmarks.

• Pigmented birthmarks:

When the cells of babies experience an overgrowth, it can cause pigmentation on their skin when they are born. These are called pigmented birthmarks.

Vascular Birthmarks

Birthmarks caused due to the improper structure of the blood vessels in babies are mostly of the following types:

• Macular Stains (Telangiectatic Nevus)

Some other names for these birthmarks include stork bites, salmon patches, angel kisses, and others. Mostly in a dull red or pink colour, these birthmarks are commonly spotted on the forehead, eyelids, upper lips and behind the neck of babies. These are harmless marks, and they usually disappear by the time the baby is two years old. No treatment is required for these marks.

• Haemangioma

The three main types of haemangiomas on the baby’s skin are superficial, deep and compound. Superficial birthmarks are found only on the skin’s surface. Deep birthmarks develop underneath the skin. Compound birthmarks are a mix of superficial and deep birthmarks. They can be red or blue based on their location. These birthmarks slowly develop on the baby’s skin, but they go away when the child is about 10 years old.  While treatments are not necessary to correct them, minor surgery can remove abnormal birthmarks that cause cosmetic and functional disturbances.

• Port-wine Stains

Usually found on the baby’s face, neck, arms, or legs, these birthmarks are the colour of wine when they are formed (reddish pink). However, the shade gets darker as the child grows. If they don’t fade during the early years, these marks can grow to resemble small pebbles on the skin. Doctors conduct biopsies and other skin tests to determine the best treatment for removing these marks.

• Venous Vascular Malformations

When certain groups of veins are dilated or enlarged, it causes venous vascular malformations in babies. In this condition, their veins are in a deep shade of red or purple. These don’t go away on their own. Doctors assess the condition first and then recommend the right treatment to remove these marks.

Pigmented Birthmarks

Some of the popular birthmarks that are due to skin discolouration are:

• Café-au-lait Spots

In French, "café" and "lait" refer to coffee and milk, respectively. These birthmarks are given this name because they form in shades of coffee and milk anywhere on the baby’s skin. Check your baby’s body regularly, as these birthmarks may grow in number as the child grows. One or two spots may be harmless.  However, if you find more spots in the shape of a dime or an eraser, consult a doctor immediately, as this could indicate an underlying nervous system issue.

• Mongolian spots (Dermal Melanocytosis)

These harmless birthmarks are found on the lower back or buttocks of babies in a bluish-grey shade. Such birthmarks are quite common in babies with dark skin, and babies belonging to a certain race (Indian, Asian, African, Hispanic, or Southern European origin).

• Congenital Nevi

Found in light brown, dark brown or black colours, congenital nevi refers to moles present on a baby’s body at the time of birth. If your baby has many small moles on her body at the time of birth, this could indicate an alarming growth of pigment cells. If left undiagnosed and untreated for a long time, these pigment cells can impact the functioning of the baby’s central nervous system, thereby leading to seizures and brain disorders.

• Sebaceous Nevi

These are commonly found on the baby’s scalp in shades of tan or orange. They are caused due to the excessive secretion of sebaceous glands in the baby’s body. These birthmarks don’t fade with time. These marks prevent hair growth on the scalp. It is important to seek medical help immediately to see if these can be surgically removed.

• Silvermark

Usually, these birthmarks refer to a single streak of silver hair that you may sometimes notice on the baby’s forehead. Usually, these marks are found in babies with a family history of this condition.

Conclusion

While most birthmarks in babies are harmless and may fade on their own, some may indicate a health issue and may create problems with the baby’s appearance and functionality as she grows. It's important to have these birthmarks checked by a doctor.

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on June 12, 2025