Can Psoriasis Affect My Child’s Birthmark?

May 14
2025

At the Vascular Birthmark Center in New York, NY, we understand how vital it is for parents to grasp the nuances of their child’s health conditions. One question that may arise is whether psoriasis can affect a child’s birthmark. Our specialists explain the relationship between psoriasis and various types of birthmarks and offer insights and support for families dealing with these concerns.

What Is Psoriasis?

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases of the NIH defines psoriasis as “a chronic (long-lasting) disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly.” It leads to thick, red scaly patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. While psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, it often appears on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.

The condition manifests differently in children compared to adults; pediatric psoriasis may include patches that are smaller and more scaly and can sometimes present as diaper dermatitis in infants.

Interestingly, psoriasis is not just a cosmetic issue—it can significantly impact a child’s quality of life, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. The 2023 Paediatric Drugs journal indicates that approximately 1-3% of the general population may be affected by psoriasis, and one-third of all patients develop symptoms in childhood and adolescence.

Understanding Birthmarks

Birthmarks are congenital lesions on the skin that can vary in color, shape and size. They are generally divided into two categories: vascular birthmarks, such as hemangiomas and port-wine stains, and pigmented birthmarks, such as moles and café-au-lait spots. Vascular birthmarks occur due to abnormal blood vessel formation, while pigmented birthmarks result from clusters of pigment cells.

At the Vascular Birthmark Center, we specialize in understanding and treating vascular birthmarks, ensuring that children receive the best possible care, including accurate diagnosis and effective treatments.

Can Psoriasis Affect My Child’s Birthmark?

The interaction between psoriasis and birthmarks can be complex. Here are key points to consider:

Psoriasis and Vascular Birthmarks

Vascular birthmarks can sometimes change appearance in children with psoriasis. For instance, areas with a vascular malformation might become more inflamed or irritated if psoriasis occurs in parallel. The ongoing inflammation from psoriasis can impact the way that vascular birthmarks manifest, potentially leading to irritation or exacerbation of symptoms in some cases. The December 2024 Clinical Case Reports journal examined this and determined that “the development of psoriatic plaques within vascular malformations is possible, although it cannot be considered common.”

Pigmented Birthmarks and Psoriasis

While psoriasis is primarily a skin inflammatory condition, it generally does not affect pigmented birthmarks. However, if a child with a pigmented birthmark develops psoriasis nearby, the inflammatory response could potentially change the texture or appearance of the skin around the birthmark, leading to concerns. It’s important to monitor any changes closely and discuss them with a healthcare provider or birthmark specialist.

How We Can Help

At the Vascular Birthmark Center, our mission is clear: we provide the best care possible for children and adults with vascular birthmarks. We understand that knowledge is power. Therefore, our team spends ample time with each patient and their family to explain their condition, expected outcomes, and treatment options.

Treatment for psoriasis often includes topical treatments, phototherapy and sometimes systemic medications. If psoriasis is impacting a child’s vascular birthmark, dermatologists at our center may recommend a tailored treatment strategy to address both conditions simultaneously while ensuring the child’s comfort and well-being.

FAQs for Psoriasis and Birthmarks

Can birthmarks change if my child develops psoriasis?

Yes, particularly with vascular birthmarks. Changes in inflammation or skin condition may influence their appearance. It’s essential to consult a birthmark specialist for evaluation and tailored advice.

Is psoriasis hereditary?

Psoriasis can run in families, but it is not directly inherited. Environmental factors, in combination with genetic predispositions, contribute to its development.

How can I support my child with psoriasis?

Education is key. Teach your child about their condition, encourage self-care and foster open communication about their feelings. Encouraging a stable routine for skin care and seeking treatment from specialized healthcare professionals can also be very helpful.

What should I do if I notice changes in my child’s birthmark?

It’s essential to consult a dermatologist or a specialist at the Vascular Birthmark Center for evaluation to determine if further treatment or observation is required.

New York Specialty Birthmark Care

Navigating the complexities of your child’s health can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with conditions like psoriasis and birthmarks. At the Vascular Birthmark Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for your child, ensuring you have the information and support you need to make informed decisions about their skin health. If you suspect that psoriasis may be affecting your child’s birthmark, we encourage you to reach out to our experienced team for personalized guidance and care. Your child’s health and well-being are our utmost priority.