Skin Cravings: What Are The Main Types And When To Worry

Today we talk about skin cravings, a common problem for many children and usually not a cause for concern. But you always have to be a little careful.

Have you noticed any spots on your child’s skin? In most cases these are cravings and in general there is no reason to be alarmed. However, it is always advisable to keep an eye on them and consult your pediatrician, as in some cases they may be associated with different pathologies.

Some of these skin birthmarks are congenital and others are formed simply due to abnormalities in the blood vessels or pigmentation. Although nothing can be done to avoid them, we can classify them according to the cause of their formation.

Types of birthmarks

Vascular birthmarks

They are those that are formed due to a problem in the blood vessels, they are red in color and there are 3 different types:

1. Macules: They are red in color and usually appear on the eyelids, nose, lips, neck or head and become more noticeable when the baby makes an effort. As a general rule, they disappear around 2 years of age.
2. Hemangiomas: have the color of strawberries and can be superficial or deep and sometimes even have a bluish color. They grow very fast the first few months, but begin to shrink and even disappear at the age of 9. They can eventually leave a scar and appear anywhere on the body.
3. Wine cravings: They have this name because their color is darker, like that of red wine, and although they can appear anywhere on the body, we often see them on the face, neck, arms or legs. They tend to grow and, unless we undergo some treatment, they don’t disappear on their own. We need to be careful when they are close to one eye, as they could damage vision.

Pigmented birthmarks

When the cells that give pigment to the skin grow excessively, they give rise to this type of spots. We can find them in three different forms:

1. Mongolian spots: These are usually bluish in color and are found on the buttocks or lower back. They are common in people of African, Hispanic or Asian descent and disappear at the latest around 3 years of age.
2. Moles or nevi: Almost all of us have moles, but if they were present at birth, they are said to be congenital. They can be large, small, bulky or flat and even be covered in hair. They are more likely to develop melanoma (skin cancer) so it is advisable to have them checked regularly. They are brown or black in color.
3. Coffee and Latte Spots: As the name indicates, they are light brown in color and can be found anywhere on the body. They tend to multiply and grow as the child grows. They pose no danger, although it is advisable to keep an eye on their growth, as it could be related to a genetic disease called neurofibromatosis.

When should I go to the doctor?

If there is blood, wounds, irritation or infection, you should see your doctor, clean the area thoroughly with soap and water, and cover with gauze.

Keep in mind that, although it usually does not mean anything, whenever a mole changes shape, color or texture, it is advisable to go to a specialist to evaluate it and rule out any type of skin cancer.

For some of these birthmarks the best treatment is laser, others go away on their own, and large moles are usually removed with surgery.

As for wine stains, a pulsating laser treatment is used. The treatment must be followed over time as they usually reappear, but if started at an early age the pigmentation decreases significantly.