Are Birthmarks Genetic?

Birthmarks are a discoloration of the skin that is formed before birth. It is estimated that one in ten babies are born with some type of birthmark on their skin. No one is really sure why birthmarks form on some babies and not others, but it is known that vascular birthmarks are not hereditary and, therefore, have nothing to do with being passed on genetically.

So, we know birth marks are not genetic, but why do they form? As previously mentioned, the cause of why birthmarks forms is unknown.

• There are myths surrounding the formation of birthmarks, but these myths have never been proven to be accurate.
• Some myths say that a pregnant woman will give birth to a baby with a birthmark if she experiences a lot of fear while being pregnant or if she sees something out of the ordinary.

In reality, the medical community believes the real reason for birthmarks is an overgrowth of melanocytes, the cells that form to give the skin color or pigment. Medical studies also have shown that birthmarks are more prevalent with females then they are with males, although no one knows for sure why this is the case. Thus, while much does remain unknown, medical science, however, has been able to determine that the specific formation of birthmarks has nothing to do with genetics.

Birthmark Types   

There are many different types of vascular birthmarks. These different types of birthmarks are stork bites, Mongolian blue spots, strawberry birthmarks, and port-wine stains.

Strawberry birthmarks are probably the most noticeable on the skin and are most often seen on premature infants.

• Strawberry birthmarks earned their name from the color of the actual mark because it is mostly red in color therefore resembling a strawberry.
• Strawberry birthmarks are caused by a non-cancerous overgrowth of the blood vessels beneath the underlying area and are made up of cells that are part of the lining on the inner side of the blood vessels.

These types of birthmarks have not been associated in any way with cancer or other health issues.

Other Birthmark Facts

More facts about birthmarks:

• Birthmarks can appear in many colors, including blue, blue-grey, brown, tan, black, pink, white, red, and purple.
• Birthmarks can form in many different sizes and shapes.
• They can form both flat on the skin and raised from the skin depending on the type of birthmark it is.
• While some birthmarks may be miniscule in size and barely visible, others can be quite large and highly visible.
• Some birthmarks have been known to disappear as the child progressively gets older, while other birthmarks have become larger as the child grows.
• The life of a birthmark, therefore, is rather unpredictable. 

If you have a birthmark that you are concerned about, such as one that is changing in structure or that has irregular edges, you may wish to consult with a doctor.