Does Everyone Have a Birthmark?

While birthmarks are common, not everyone has one. There's no way to predict if a child will have a birthmark or not. Not having a birthmark isn't a sign of a particular health condition or a cause for concern. Also, remember that many types of birthmarks fade as children get older.

Why do people have birthmarks?

Vascular birthmarks happen when blood vessels don't form correctly. Either there are too many of them or they're wider than usual. Pigmented birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of the cells that create pigment (color) in skin.

Are you always born with a birthmark?

Contrary to their name, birthmarks aren't always present at birth. Some, such as hemangiomas, develop weeks later. Most birthmarks are permanent, but a few types fade as a child grows. Birthmarks are common and usually harmless.