Birthmarks are usually harmless and represent irregularity on the skin that is present at birth or shortly after birth. The most effective treatment available is laser. The choice of laser depends on the type of birthmarks i.e. melanin or vascular.
There are many laser treatments employed for different types of birthmarks. Picosecond or Nanosecond QS Nd:YAG laser is used to treat black colour birthmarks that include Nevus of Ota, Nevus of Ito, Café au lait Macule, Lentigines, Nevus Spillus and etc. Vascular birthmarks such as port wine stain and haemongioma will benefit from Pulse Dye Laser or Long Pulse Nd:YAG and Long Pulse KTP laser.
The number of treatments depends on the size and depth of the birthmarks. It is possible to see immediate results after just 1 session although in general, birthmarks removal usually requires at least 6 treatments at 4 to 8 weeks interval.
Laser treatments are generally safe when used appropriately. Side effects are usually energy dependent. The skin might temporarily develop some pinpoint redness which subside after several days. Scabbing can develop with a vascular laser.
