As a pediatric dermatologist with extensive experience in treating various skin conditions in children, I often encounter inquiries about Mongolian spots. These are congenital, blue-gray patches that are commonly found on the buttocks or the back of infants, particularly in those of East Asian, South Asian, and African descent.

Mongolian spots are a type of dermal melanocytosis, which means they are caused by a concentration of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the deeper layers of the skin. They are generally harmless and are not associated with any health problems.

Do Mongolian blue spots go away?

Yes, Mongolian spots typically fade and disappear as a child grows. The majority of these spots will have completely faded by the time a child is around five to seven years old. However, in some cases, they may persist into adulthood, although this is less common. The fading process is gradual and is due to the dispersion of melanocytes as the skin matures.

It's important to note that while Mongolian spots are generally not a cause for concern, any unusual changes in the size, color, or appearance of a skin lesion should be brought to the attention of a healthcare professional for evaluation.

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Mongolian spots are present at birth, and most of them fade (at least somewhat) by age two. Most have completely disappeared by age five. If Mongolian spots remain at puberty, they are likely to be permanent. Fewer than five percent of children with Mongolian spots still have any by adulthood.read more >>