Laser Birthmark Treatment: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Laser Birthmark Treatment?
A skin doctor called a dermatologist often treats birthmarks with lasers. Some birthmarks are treated by a plastic surgeon, who reshapes and repairs skin. The right doctor depends on the type of birthmark and where it is on the body.
What it is
Laser birthmark treatment uses focused beams of light to fade or lighten a birthmark. The laser targets the pigment or blood vessels inside the mark without harming much of the surrounding skin. It usually takes several sessions to see results.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Doctors often recommend laser treatment when a birthmark is large, dark, or in a visible spot that bothers the patient. Sometimes a mark near the eye or mouth can cause health problems. Lightening the mark can also boost confidence.
How to prepare
- Ask which medicines to avoid before the visit; some, such as aspirin, raise bleeding risk.
- Do not smoke before the procedure, because smoking slows skin healing.
- Avoid tanning and strong sun exposure on the treated area, since tanned skin raises the risk of side effects.
- Arrange a ride home if a sedative will be used.
- Ask ahead about how many sessions may be needed and what results to expect.
What happens during it
You will wear protective goggles, and numbing cream or a numbing shot may be used on the skin. The doctor moves a handheld laser device over the birthmark, sending quick pulses of light at the mark. Each pulse feels like a snap, and the visit often takes less than an hour.
Recovery
The treated skin may be red, swollen, or bruised for a few days to a couple of weeks. Keeping the area clean, moisturized, and out of the sun helps it heal. Most people return to normal activities right away, though several sessions spaced weeks apart are usually needed.
Risks and side effects
Common side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, and temporary changes in skin color. Less often, treatment can cause blistering, infection, scarring, or lasting color change. People with darker skin tones have a higher risk of color changes. An experienced doctor lowers these risks, but no procedure is risk free.
Who performs it
Dermatologists perform most laser birthmark treatments. Plastic surgeons also do this procedure, as do pediatric dermatologists, who focus on children's skin. A primary care doctor can be a helpful first stop and can refer you to a specialist.
Common questions
Does laser birthmark treatment hurt?
Most people describe each laser pulse as a quick snap, like a rubber band on the skin. Numbing cream or a numbing shot is usually used to reduce the discomfort. The soreness after treatment is usually mild.
How many sessions will be needed?
It depends on the type, size, and depth of the birthmark. Many people need several sessions spaced several weeks apart. Some marks fade a lot, while others fade only a little.
Will the birthmark come back after treatment?
Some birthmarks, especially ones made of blood vessels, can slowly darken again over the years. Repeat treatments can often lighten them again. Results differ from person to person.
Can babies and children have this treatment?
Yes, in some cases. Doctors sometimes treat infants when a birthmark could cause a health problem, such as one near the eye. The decision is made case by case with a specialist.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
