Most birthmarks that appear during infancy resolve themselves within the first few years of childhood.  There are some types however which remain on the skin throughout adulthood and require medical intervention to even out the skin tone.

Knowing which types of birthmarks eventually fade and resolve themselves over time and those that will not is helpful in determining when to seek out medical attention. The following are the kinds of birthmarks that are benign and eventually fade over a period of time.

Hemangiomas

Hemangiomas are raised lesions generally found in newborns. There are cases however where the lesions develop within the first few weeks of the baby's life. These lesions are generally benign and may either be superficial or deep.

This is not to say however that all hemangiomas should not be paid left untreated. Studies show that there are a few cases wherein untreated hemangiomas leave scars or grow in size by the time the child reaches the age of 12. The management of hemangiomas therefore should be individualized depending on the number and size of lesions, and their rate of growth.

Slate Gray Nevi

Slate gray nevi or Mongolian blue spots are large, hairy birthmarks that are bluish-gray in color on newborns and infants, but disappear within months or years. Slate gray nevi are usually found on the buttocks or lower backs of children, especially those who are dark skinned.

Macular Stains

Almost 50% of newborns have macular stains. They are generally harmless and are light pink or reddish in hue, as they are actually collections of capillary blood vessels close to the skin. They are also called salmon patches, stork bites or angels kisses depending on their location and because of the various forms and shapes they resemble.

Most cases of macular stains fade over time. Those located on the forehead and eyelids fade away completely by the time the child is two years old, while those found on the back and on the neck do not fade.