Understanding Salmon Patches: Common Vascular Birthmarks
Salmon patches, also known as vascular birthmarks, are a common occurrence in newborns. These birthmarks are characterized by flat pink or red patches on the skin, which are typically harmless. They occur when blood vessels cluster together beneath the skin’s surface.
About one-third of all newborns develop these marks, making them quite prevalent. When salmon patches appear on the face, they are often referred to as “angel kisses,” whereas those on the neck are commonly called “stork bites.”
Salmon patches tend to become more prominent when the child is hot or crying and usually fade away gradually over time.
Hemangiomas
Hemangiomas are types of vascular birthmarks that come in two forms: strawberry hemangiomas and deep hemangiomas. Strawberry hemangiomas appear as raised pink areas on the skin’s surface, while deep hemangiomas cause bulges underneath the skin. These birthmarks can vary in size, ranging from as small as one millimeter to as large as 20 centimeters. One characteristic of hemangiomas is their rapid growth, which typically continues for several months. However, by the time a baby reaches their first birthday, hemangiomas usually start to shrink. While most hemangiomas do not pose any harm to the child, it is still important to have them evaluated, especially if their size or location may cause potential problems.