Birthmark Removal

Birthmarks may be "natural", but for many people they can be seen as anything from an unwanted blemish to a soul-sapping scar that leaves you lacking in confidence. Fortunately, modern technology can remove or reduce the impact of birthmarks in a safe and effective manner.

Birthmarks are simply a discolouration of the skin that can have a variety of causes including an unusual grouping of blood vessels or a localised excess of the pigmentation that gives skin its colour. Laser treatment can be suitable for all of these types of birthmark, though some may require longer courses of treatment than others.

Laser treatment may sound severe but is actually very sophisticated. It involves using a customized light wave that is right for the specific colouration of the birthmark, a little like broadcasting sound at a particular frequency. Over the course of several treatments, the laser breaks down the colouration so that the mark fades and blends in with the surrounding skin, without leaving any scars.

While perfectly safe, laser treatment can be a little uncomfortable, though not intolerably so. Wherever necessary, anaesthetic cream can be applied before treatment to minimise any discomfort that may arise.

There can be some minor side effects such as bruising, though these aren't long-lasting. It’s also generally best to avoid strong sunlight (or at least use high SPF sun cream) and steers clear of tanning beds in the months immediately after treatment.

You may notice some slight temporary bruising or whitening at the area, and this is to be expected as it indicates that the laser is having its lightening effect on the birthmark. This soon fades, and you will notice the birthmark fading along with it. Scarring is not generally a side effect of birthmark removal.

Prices for birthmark removal can be in the range of £200 to £400 for a single treatment.