How to Remove Birth Marks

Birthmarks can show up in a variety of colors and locations on the body. Sometimes birthmarks are in a prominent location where you might want them removed. In other cases, a birthmark may pose a serious health risk, such as birthmarks that can attach to an internal organ. If you're uncomfortable with your birthmark, consult a licensed dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon about birthmark removal options. These doctors specialize in birthmark removal and are better equipped to perform the procedure than other physicians or health experts.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask your doctor before determining if you want to remove the birthmark. Some types of birthmarks, like strawberry marks, may shrink or fade on their own. Other types of birthmarks might grow over time.

• 2

  Take oral medication to remove birthmarks. Corticosteroids work to shrink the size of the birthmark. However, it can cause side effects such as weight gain and round face.

• 3

  Consider injectable medications. Sclerosing agents penetrate the birthmark, irritating the blood cells and vessels. Ultimately, the birthmark will shrink. Injectable corticosteroids provide results in two to four weeks.

• 4

  Find information about Interferon alfa-12, a birthmark removal medication only prescribed if corticosteroids aren't effective. Side effects include fever, irritability, neutropenia and liver problems. Results can take three to six months.

• 5

  Use laser therapy to treat birthmarks that are close to the surface of the skin. Several treatments, which consist of short bursts of laser light applied to the birthmark, may be necessary to eventually shrink the size of the birthmark.

• 6

  Rely on surgery, performed under general anesthesia, to remove birthmarks that impact the internal organs. Doctors usually only perform surgery if the birthmark poses a significant health risk, such as birthmarks that can attach to an internal organ.