A birthmark is a persistently visible mark on the skin that is evident at a baby's birth or shortly thereafter. Birthmarks often represent a nevus (mole) or in the case of pink or red birthmarks, a capillary hemangioma. There are also other types of birthmarks.
Signs and symptoms of a birthmark include skin markings that may be flat or raised and are usually brown, tan, pink, purple, blue-gray, or red in color. Birthmarks are not painful and are typically not associated with itching or irritation. A birthmark is usually evident at birth or appears shortly after birth.
Causes of Birthmarks
The cause of a birthmark is related to the type of birthmark because some can be related to inherited conditions. For other types, the cause is not understood.
Other birthmark symptoms and signs
- Skin Markings That Are Flat or Raised
- Skin Markings That Are Typically Brown, Tan, Pink, Purple, Blue-Gray, or Red
Main Article on Birthmark Symptoms and Signs

IMAGES
Eczema Browse our medical image collection of allergic skin disorders such as psoriasis and dermatitis and more caused by allergies See ImagesFrom 
Skin Problems and Treatments Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Skin Care & Conditions Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.