Dilated capillaries (red marks) on children's skin

[anxious parent]

My 5 year old daughter has a permanent red spot on her nose and also one on her cheek.  My doctor confirmed that these were dilated capillaries and said they were of no medical consequence - only cosmetic.  He would not advise any treatment until she was 12 years. I have noticed recently that my 3 year old son is developing some dilated capillaries on his cheeks (under they eye area).  In both children, these blemishes are quite unsightly; I am applying daily sun-block cream to both of my children's faces & also some camoflauge cream to the red areas.  

I wonder about treatment for these - would it be possible for children of such a young age to tolerate laser treatment or would you recommend any other treatment or perhaps other preventative methods I could use.  Are there any "natural" treatments that would help here e.g. dietary/vitamins etc?

I would really appreciate any advice you can give me here.  

Thanks.

Anxious Parent.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

These collections of superficial blood vessels are common in children and don't mean anything.  No cause is known.  They sometimes go away on their own.  Although laser treatment is very gentle, I don't generally perform it in children unless the child is very self-conscious, and that's not common at all.  It isn't necessary to provide extra protection for them from the sun.  If one of your children complains (without prompting) bitterly about being teased, you can look into laser treatment.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff