As I say in Body Drama, no one can explain the precise cause of birthmarks, but genetics plays a part in the mix. For example, my Grandma Nancy (I’m named after her) had a Florida-shaped hyperpigmentation spot (darker mark on lighter skin) on her inner right thigh. My mom has the same exact birthmark, but right in the middle of her forehead. I have the exact same birthmark in the exact same place as my grandmother, which leads me to believe that my little girl will probably be sporting the forehead Florida!

In the past, facial birthmarks were considered disfiguring and impossible to conceal, but today, people can find relief from their facial birthmarks in a variety of ways. Laser surgery works for some (though it can cause scarring in others) and makeup is always an option, too. Some go au naturel and choose to embrace their birthmark as a wonderful part of who they are.

Whatever you want to do about it, if you have a facial birthmark, scar, or other unique issue that is visible to the entire world, it is very important to not let it make you who you are. How you choose to work with what you’ve got is what really matters!

For an example of someone who hasn’t let their facial birthmark keep them from achieving their dreams and goals, check out this actress/dancer’s story:


“I have a large port wine birthmark on my cheek. I started wearing makeup in the 6th grade after being called “buttface” by the boys on the bus. I used to avoid swimming in public settings because it would wash my make-up off. I also had several laser surgeries to lighten the color, but it was an experimental thing at the time and I ended up with a little scarring. I think the hardest thing about having it is feeling like I always have to have make-up on. I use Dermablend and Colortration for coverup.”

“Although I was teased mercilessly as a kid, I have successfully done print ads and even beauty shots with this mark and I don’t feel it has ever kept me from being cast, and in the past few years I have been working on being more comfortable with people seeing me without make-up.”

Thanks for sharing your story, B! There are lots of women out there who are facing similar issues who will feel better after reading about your experience!

Have you a facial birthmark or scar story that you’d like to share? Contact me and I’ll post it!

Tagged as Book Extras, Real Stories from Real Girls

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