Most newborns have blemishes on their skin that are either seen at the moment of birth or sometime after birth. These blemishes are referred to as birthmarks. A vascular birthmark can vary in color. They range from red to purple. They are caused as a result of irregular blood vessels underneath the skin.

Some people have birthmarks that are pigmented. They are usually brown. This happens when pigmentation cells cluster together in one part of the body. For the most part, birthmarks are not dangerous. Even if they don’t fade, they are typically just a cosmetic issue. However, some birthmarks can turn into open sores and become infected. Other birthmarks can increase a person’s risk of developing glaucoma or have been related to other conditions.

Pulsed dye laser treatment is an effective way to remove some types of birthmarks. The treatment involves using a pulsed dye laser to deliver concentrated beams of light designed to affect the blood vessels in the skin. When the light comes into contact with the skin, it generates heat, which safely destroys the blood vessels. However, the surrounding skin is not damaged. The laser produces a yellow light. This light is exceptionally safe and does not produce long-term skin damage.

This is an outpatient treatment that can be performed in the comfort of our office in Gahanna. Patients do not need any form of anesthesia because before the machine generates the pulses of laser light, it generates a cold burst to diminish the sensation of discomfort. Patients usually start to see benefits after a series of treatments.

Side effects are minimal with pulsed dye laser treatment. The most common side effect a person experiences after this treatment is bruising. However, it is usually not pronounced and clears up within a few days. There may be some minor pigmentation issues, but these will only last a couple of weeks.

For most people, a birthmark is a minor annoyance that is located on a part of their body they can’t even see. Others, especially those who have birthmarks on their face, arms, or hands, may want to take steps to remove their birthmarks. Fortunately, pulsed dye laser treatment is a safe and effective way to do this.

Make an appointment at Smith Facial Plastics in Gahanna to learn more about how pulsed dye laser treatment can make your birthmark a thing of the past. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!