The appearance of a pink or red birthmark on a newborn often prompts immediate concern for new parents. These common marks, known affectionately as “Angel Kisses” or “Stork Bites,” are medically termed Nevus Simplex or Salmon Patches. They are extremely frequent, occurring in up to 70% of all newborns, and are entirely benign vascular birthmarks present at birth.
What Are Angel Kisses and Stork Bites?
Nevus Simplex is a flat, reddish-pink patch that appears on the skin, often with indistinct or feathery borders. These patches are distinguished by their smooth texture; they are never raised or bumpy. A simple test to identify them is blanching, where the color momentarily fades when light pressure is applied.
The common names for the marks are determined by their location. An “Angel Kiss” refers to Nevus Simplex patches found on the face, such as on the upper eyelids, the forehead, or between the eyebrows (glabella). A “Stork Bite” refers to the same mark when it appears on the back of the neck or the nape of the scalp. Patches on the face are often temporary, while those on the neck may linger longer.
These marks can appear more intensely red or purple when the baby cries, strains, or becomes warm. This temporary deepening of color is due to increased blood flow to the area. The appearance of the mark is not tied to any underlying health condition and is considered a normal variation in a newborn’s skin.
The Physiological Cause of the Marks
Nevus Simplex arises from a localized immaturity or malformation of the tiny blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface. The mark is caused by the dilation, or widening, of capillaries in the superficial layer of the dermis. These capillaries are small blood vessels that connect arteries and veins.
The increased visibility of these vessels results from a delay in the normal maturation of the neuroectoderm during embryonic development. This process affects the autonomic nerve regulation of the capillaries in that specific area. Because the vessels are enlarged and close to the thin skin of a newborn, the pink-red color of the blood shows through easily. This vascular mechanism confirms the marks are not caused by external trauma or pressure during the birthing process.
Fading and When to Consult a Doctor
The prognosis for Nevus Simplex is excellent, as the marks typically fade on their own without intervention. Angel Kisses located on the face usually resolve completely within the first one to two years of life. Although they may appear darker temporarily during periods of strong emotion or activity, this does not indicate a permanent return.
Stork Bites on the back of the neck often persist into adulthood. Even when they do not completely disappear, they are usually covered by the child’s hair and are not a cosmetic concern. The marks do not darken, thicken, or grow in size beyond the normal growth of the child’s body.
Parents should consult a pediatrician if a vascular birthmark is raised, feels lumpy, or has a dark purple color with distinct, sharp borders. These characteristics distinguish Nevus Simplex from other vascular birthmarks, such as a Port-Wine Stain (Nevus Flammeus). Unlike Nevus Simplex, Port-Wine Stains are permanent, tend to be unilateral, and may be associated with other syndromes if they appear in specific locations on the face.