Birthmarks are more of the rule than the exception.

Around 80% of all babies are born with some form of birthmark, and most of them are completely harmless. In fact, the most common baby birthmarks fade away over time. Macular birthmarks, also known as “stork bites”, are just spots where blood vessels are visible through the skin that fade away as the baby gets older. Hemangiomas are raised areas where blood vessels clump together, resulting in visible discoloration. These typically fade over time. A rarer form of hemangioma (only 3 out of every 1000 babies have it) called a port-wine stain is usually permanent, but is still harmless and doesn’t require treatment.

Nevi, little brown spots also the known as moles, are also usually harmless. However, these usually appear after birth. A baby born with these, especially if they are large, is at a higher risk for skin cancer. You should have a doctor examine them.

Click here to learn more about how birthmarks work, or check out Baby Center to see whether your baby's birthmarks are a cause for concern.