Laser Birthmark Removal

A birthmark is a congenital, benign irregularity on the skin which is present at birth or appears shortly after birth, usually within the first month. They can occur anywhere on the skin and vary significantly in size, depth, shape and colour. rtwskin Doctors and Laser Therapists understand that these marks can sometimes cause embarrassment and distress and that for some, removing or reducing the appearance of these marks may be the best way forward. We have a range of state-of-the-art laser equipment extensive enough for us to make sure your mark has met its match.

There are a wide variety of birthmarks, some of which are responsive to treatment with either laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. There are two main categories of birthmarks: vascular and pigmented in origin. A small number of birthmarks are associated with more serious medical conditions, requiring investigation which one of the reasons why an initial consultation is required before any treatment can commence.

Vascular Birthmarks:

Vascular birthmarks, also known as red birthmarks, are caused by abnormal blood vessels in or under the skin which are either too wide, too narrow or too numerous. Vascular birthmarks include macular stains (also known as salmon patches), haemangiomas and port-wine stains.
Vascular birthmarks are one of the most common types of birthmarks and may be found on all areas of the body. They do not tend to fade or disappear on their own.

Pigmentation Birthmarks:

Pigmentation birthmarks occur when the skin has too much colour or pigment. They are also known as ‘Café Au Lait’ and includes moles or brown/cream coloured patches of skin. Generally, these marks begin the fade over time.

Most birthmarks are harmless and do not require treatment. However, for those that are unsightly or causing embarrassment or distress, there are treatments available to reduce their appearance. It is not always possible to completely remove a birthmark, but many people can benefit from treatment to lighten a birthmark or significantly reduce its appearance.

As one of the largest leading laser clinics in Europe, we use state of the art laser technology to break up pigmentations into tiny particles. We use the Q-Plus C Laser from Quanta Systems of Italy to treat pigmented lesions such as birthmarks. “Q” Switch Laser generates a high-powered beam of light which is delivered on an extremely short pulse. The laser is passed over the birthmark, microscopically shattering the cluster of built up pigment into tiny fragments, which are easily processed and eliminated by the body’s immune system, causing the birthmark to fade over the following 4-6 weeks. Multiple treatments may be needed to achieve optimum results.

A consultation with one of our highly skilled practitioners will allow the area to be assessed and together, you will create a tailored treatment plan according to your needs. Significant improvement can be experienced after a single laser treatment session, birthmarks are likely to need a number of treatments to achieve the best results. Following the treatment, the birthmark may temporarily appear darker before it lightens, this is completely normal and signals the skin is healing, slight reddening may also occur along with flaking as the pigmented skin is eliminated.

All laser procedures will require a test patch a minimum of 24 hours prior to treatment. This is a standard requirement for safety and insurance purposes.