Pediatric
Dermatology

Port-wine birthmarks or birthmarks are blue, pink, or red markings on the skin that are frequently present at birth. Most port-wine birthmarks occur on the face, scalp, neck, arms, and legs, but the markings can occur anywhere on the body. Most of these birthmarks do not pose a serious medical concern and are typically removed for cosmetic reasons, but they can progress if left untreated and are occasionally an indication of an underlying condition.

We treat patients of all ages including young infants, but treating during early infancy allows for more complete clearing than is seen with older patients. Treatments can begin as early as several days of age. Dr. Geronemus and the physicians at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York pioneered the treatment of infants with port-wine birthmarks. Early intervention can lead to a faster and more complete response to treatment and minimize the requirements for anesthesia.

While we offer all options for anesthesia, we can usually perform the treatment during infancy without anesthesia as the procedure is usually well tolerated by babies. Our dermatologists are also experts at the placement of protective ocular shields in the office setting, allowing for the safe treatment of the upper and lower eyelids during infancy.

We frequently use the pulsed dye laser (Vbeam Perfecta and Vbeam Prima) for treatments. Broadband light therapy (BBL) is an alternative option, and the Excel V laser is used for thicker port wine birthmarks in older patients. We also use GentleLase, Alexandrite, and Nd:YAG. Our doctors will be able to recommend the best device for each case.

Learn more about Port-Wine Birthmarks.

Pigmented birthmarks are the result of large concentrations of melanin in one spot and are usually brown in color. Some types of pigmented birthmarks include Café-au-lait spots, which are are light tan in color, and Nevus of Ota, which is typically brown or blue and appears around the eyes. Pigmentation can also occur in the whites of the eyes. Dr. Geronemus treats patients of all ages, including infants and toddlers. He believes that early intervention is the most effective way to successfully treat vascular birthmarks, using safe, fast, and comfortable treatments in his office. Lasers used for the treatment of birthmarks include Erbium: YAG, Fraxel Dual®, ND:YAG, PicoPlus®, PicoSure™, Ruby, Vbeam Perfecta™ Pulsed Dye Laser, and Vbeam Prima®. We offer topical anesthesia and local anesthesia for this procedure, but anesthesia is not always necessary.

Learn more about Birthmarks.

Acne may occur when pores clog or when bacteria that are normally on the surface of the skin get into the clogged pores. Acne is very common (about 8 in 10 preteens and teens have acne, along with many adults) and can develop almost anywhere on the body. Researchers have found it also affects more than the skin, as adolescents with severe acne often develop depression, anxiety, poor self-image, and low self-esteem. Treatment options for acne range from topical and oral medications to chemical peels and cortisone injections. We are also accepting volunteers for a clinical study using a new laser for patients with active acne.

In addition to active breakouts, kids and teenagers are also often left with residual scarring once the acne clears. The more severe the acne, the more visible the scars can be. Early acne treatment is recommended to avoid permanent damage to the skin. In Manhattan, New York, our dermatologists use a wide variety of lasers and devices to treat acne scars. Some of the devices used to treat scarring include:

• Fraxel Re:store Dual
• LaseMD
• PicoSure®
• Picoplus
• Active FX and Deep FX
• Nd:YAG
• Infini Genius RF Microneedling
• Fraxel Re:pair
• Halo
• Clear + Brilliant
• Clear + Brilliant Permea
• Pulsed-dye laser

Learn more about Acne and Scar Treatment.