Do skin hemangiomas require treatment?

Skin hemangiomas do not all require treatment. Most skin hemangiomas that are asymptomatic, grow slowly, and do not affect appearance or function can naturally regress over time and do not need special intervention. Only those hemangiomas that pose risks or impact daily life require treatment. If a skin hemangioma rapidly increases in size, ulcerates, bleeds, or affects appearance and function, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

From the perspective of natural disease progression, infantile skin hemangiomas typically enter a rapid growth phase within 1–3 months after birth, followed by gradual stabilization and spontaneous regression. Most regress naturally within 5–10 years, often without significant scarring. Such low-risk hemangiomas do not require treatment and only need regular observation.

Hemangiomas located on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, those situated in areas prone to friction (e.g., neck, axilla), those at high risk of ulceration and bleeding, and those growing rapidly enough to compress surrounding tissues should be treated promptly. Treatment options include laser therapy, sclerosant injections, and surgical intervention, aimed at controlling disease progression, improving appearance, and reducing complications.

In daily care, avoid friction or scratching the affected area. Dress patients in soft, breathable clothing and keep the skin lesion clean. For mild redness or swelling, appropriate cold compresses may help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, regularly document changes in the hemangioma's size and appearance.