Picosure Laser Birthmark removal before and after photos performed by Dr. Douglas Wu

Birthmark Removal

Birthmark Removal with Advanced Laser Treatments in Vancouver

Birthmark removal at Waterfront Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology focuses on improving the appearance of visible vascular and pigmentary birthmarks using advanced laser technology. Treatments are designed for adults seeking targeted, nonsurgical solutions that enhance skin improvement and confidence.

What are Vascular Birthmarks?

Vascular birthmarks are caused by clusters of visible blood vessels beneath the skin and often appear red, pink, or purple. Common examples include port wine stains, hemangiomas, and salmon patches. Treatment focuses on reducing redness and discoloration by targeting the underlying blood vessels.

Devices commonly used:

  • Vbeam® delivers controlled energy to visible vessels while protecting surrounding skin.
  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) may be used in select cases to improve color irregularities and overall skin tone.

What Are Pigmentary Birthmarks?

Pigmentary birthmarks result from excess melanin and typically appear brown, tan, or blue-gray in color. Examples include café au lait spots and certain congenital nevi. Treatment aims to gradually break down excess pigment for a more even appearance.

Advanced pigment-targeted lasers such as PicoSure® and PicoWay® use ultra-short laser pulses to address superficial and deeper pigmentary birthmarks with precision. IPL may also be used in select cases to help improve overall pigmentation and skin clarity. A thorough evaluation ensures the most appropriate device is selected for safety and effectiveness. Birthmark removal is offered for teens and adults only, following a detailed evaluation.

Lasers and Devices Used for Birthmark Removal

Vbeam

Targets vascular birthmarks by safely treating visible blood vessels responsible for redness and discoloration. 

  • Downtime: Minimal to no downtime, with temporary redness or mild swelling possible
  • Pain Level: Mild to moderate, often described as a quick snapping sensation
  • Results: Gradual improvement over a series of treatments, with long-lasting reduction in redness
PicoSure

Breaks down pigmentary birthmarks using ultra-short laser pulses that support gradual fading and skin clarity.

  • Downtime: Minimal downtime, with temporary redness or mild swelling
  • Pain Level: Mild to moderate, depending on treatment area and depth

Results: Long-term pigment reduction achieved over multiple sessions

PicoWay

Offers precise treatment for deeper or more resistant pigmentary birthmarks with minimal impact on surrounding skin.

  • Downtime: Minimal downtime, with brief redness or sensitivity 
  • Pain Level: Mild to moderate

Results: Durable results as pigment continues to fade following each session

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

Helps improve select vascular and pigmentary birthmarks by addressing color irregularities in the skin.

  • Downtime: Minimal downtime, with possible redness or darkening of pigment before fading
  • Pain Level: Mild discomfort that is generally well tolerated
  • Results: Progressive improvement with results that can last months to years with proper care

Results You Can Expect from Birthmark Removal

Reduce vascular birthmarks

Laser energy targets visible vessels to gradually soften red or purple birthmarks.

Improve pigmentary birthmarks

Excess pigment is broken down over time, allowing the skin to appear more even in tone.

Address vascular birthmark on the face

Advanced devices allow precise treatment in highly visible areas with controlled results.

Treat multiple vascular birthmark types

Different laser platforms are selected based on depth, color, and skin type.

Support smoother, more even skin tone

As birthmarks fade, surrounding skin appears more balanced and refined.

Minimize long-term discoloration

Gradual treatment reduces contrast between the birthmark and surrounding skin.

Provide non surgical improvement

Birthmark removal is performed without incisions or extended downtime.

Offer targeted cosmetic solutions

Each treatment focuses on specific concerns rather than broad or vague categories.

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Douglas Wu in clinic

About Dr. Wu

Douglas Wu, MD, brings extensive clinical experience in laser-based cosmetic dermatology. He specializes in treating adult patients with vascular and pigmentary birthmarks using advanced platforms such as Vbeam, IPL, PicoSure, and PicoWay. His approach emphasizes careful assessment, precision, and realistic outcomes based on skin type and birthmark characteristics.

Real Patients. Real Trust.

Rated 5 Stars on Google, Yelp, & Realself

All testimonials are from trusted national websites that use algorithms to vet and authenticate their reviews.

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上几个星期去屈醫生診所做了玻尿酸注l射和一個面部皮膚擊光、效果很好、皮膚光滑柔嫩了黑班沒有了、法令紋消除了、口角紋不見了。 我的朋友都說我年輕咗几年、整個人都開心和輕鬆了、感謝屈醫生送給我的大驚喜!多謝你的專業精神

𡖖本佳人

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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I trust Dr Wu implicitly, and travel many miles to see the doctor who is responsible for all of the compliments I get on my skin

Shannon Byrne

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
{

I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my face

eja421

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Your birthmark removal experience in vancouver

1. Consultation

A comprehensive evaluation of the birthmark type, depth, and skin tone to determine the most effective laser birthmark removal approach.

2. Scheduling

Treatments are scheduled with clear guidance on expectations, preparation, and session spacing.

3. Treatment

Targeted laser energy is applied to the birthmark using the most appropriate technology for vascular or pigmentary concerns.

4. Follow-Up

Follow-up visits allow assessment of response and planning of additional treatments if needed.

5. Maintenance

Some birthmarks may benefit from periodic maintenance depending on response and long-term goals.

Why Choose Waterfront for Birthmark Removal in vancouver

Waterfront Laser & Cosmetic Dermatology provides focused birthmark removal treatments designed for teens and adult patients seeking clear, practical solutions. Each treatment plan is based on whether the concern involves a vascular birthmark or pigmentary lesion. The practice offers advanced laser options, expert evaluation, and transparent care, with all services provided on a self-pay basis.

Birthmark Removal FAQ

What types of birthmarks can be treated?

Birthmark removal treatments commonly address vascular birthmarks and pigmentary birthmarks in adult patients. Vascular birthmark types include red or purple markings caused by visible blood vessels. Pigmentary birthmarks involve excess melanin and appear brown or darker than the surrounding skin. A consultation determines the most appropriate treatment option.

What is laser birthmark removal?

Laser birthmark removal uses focused light energy to target pigment or blood vessels within a birthmark. The laser selectively treats the affected area while minimizing impact on surrounding skin. Over time, the body clears the treated pigment or vessels. Multiple sessions are often required for optimal results.

How does vascular birthmark removal work?

Vascular birthmark removal targets blood vessels responsible for redness or discoloration. Laser energy causes these vessels to collapse and gradually fade. This approach is commonly used for a vascular birthmark on the face or other visible areas. Results develop progressively with each session.

Are all vascular birthmark types treated the same way?

No, different vascular birthmark types respond differently to treatment. Factors such as depth, size, and color influence laser selection and treatment planning. A personalized approach ensures effective and safe outcomes. Multiple sessions may be required depending on complexity.

How many treatments are needed for birthmark removal?

The number of treatments varies based on birthmark type, size, and response to therapy. Some patients see improvement after a few sessions, while others require additional treatments. Treatments are spaced to allow proper healing and response. Expectations are discussed during consultation.

Is birthmark removal painful?

Most patients describe treatment as tolerable, with sensations similar to brief warmth or snapping. Comfort measures are used to improve the treatment experience. Any discomfort typically resolves quickly after the session. Post treatment effects are usually mild and temporary.

What is the recovery like after birthmark removal?

Recovery is generally minimal, with temporary redness or swelling in the treated area. Pigmentary lesions may darken briefly before fading. Patients receive clear aftercare instructions to support healing. Normal activities can usually be resumed shortly after treatment.

Does Waterfront Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology treat children for birthmarks?

Birthmark removal treatments are offered for adult patients only. The practice does not treat babies or children for birthmarks. This focus allows for specialized care based on adult skin characteristics and expectations.

Is birthmark removal covered by insurance?

Birthmark removal at Waterfront Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology is considered a cosmetic service. Insurance is not accepted for this or other cosmetic treatments. Payment options and pricing are reviewed during consultation.

Who is a good candidate for birthmark removal?

Good candidates include teens and adults with visible vascular or pigmentary birthmarks who want non-surgical improvement. Skin type, birthmark characteristics, and overall goals are evaluated during consultation. A personalized plan ensures safe and realistic outcomes.