Skin & Rashes

Hickey-Like Mark or Suction Bruise on Baby's Skin

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician

Content reviewed against published AAP, AAP, NIH guidelines

Editorial policy

Last reviewed:

Baby skin is sensitive and changes frequently. If you are noticing hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin, here is what you need to know.

The short answer

A hickey-like or suction bruise on a baby's skin is surprisingly common and is usually self-inflicted. Babies and toddlers frequently suck on their own arms, hands, and wrists, creating round, reddish-purple marks that look like a hickey. These are harmless and fade within a few days to a week. Other causes of similar-looking marks include a hemangioma (birthmark), a bruise from a fall, or rarely a skin condition. If the mark appeared suddenly without a clear explanation and is in an unusual location, consult your pediatrician.

Key takeaways

  • A hickey-like or suction bruise on a baby's skin is surprisingly common and is usually self-inflicted. Babies and toddlers frequently suck on their own arms, hands, and wrists, creating round, reddish-purple marks that look like a hickey. These are harmless and fade within a few days to a week. Other causes of similar-looking marks include a hemangioma (birthmark), a bruise from a fall, or rarely a skin condition. If the mark appeared suddenly without a clear explanation and is in an unusual location, consult your pediatrician.
  • Usually normal when: A round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking
  • Call your doctor if: Unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby
“Eczema is very common in babies and children. About 1 in 10 children will develop eczema, typically starting in the first few months of life.”
— Eczema in Babies and Children, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Thousands of parents search for this exact thing. You are not alone.

What Parents Should Know

According to AAP, NIH guidelines, a hickey-like or suction bruise on a baby's skin is surprisingly common and is usually self-inflicted. Babies and toddlers frequently suck on their own arms, hands, and wrists, creating round, reddish-purple marks that look like a hickey. These are harmless and fade within a few days to a week. Other causes of similar-looking marks include a hemangioma (birthmark), a bruise from a fall, or rarely a skin condition. If the mark appeared suddenly without a clear explanation and is in an unusual location, consult your pediatrician. At 0-12 months, babies frequently suck on their arms, wrists, and hands for self-soothing, which can create red or purple suction marks. These marks are completely harmless. You can also see suction blisters on newborns' hands or wrists from sucking in the womb. Mongolian spots (flat, blue-gray birthmarks) can sometimes be mistaken for bruise marks. If you notice an unexplained bruise-like mark on a non-mobile baby that is not in a typical self-sucking location, discuss it with your pediatrician. It is generally considered normal when a round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby.

Sources: [1], [2], [3]

Normal vs. Concerning

Usually Normal
Worth Discussing
A round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking
Unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby
Suction blisters on a newborn's hands from sucking in the womb
Marks accompanied by petechiae (tiny red dots that don't blanch when pressed)
A mark that fades over a few days
Multiple unexplained marks in different stages of healing
A bruise in a typical fall location (shins, forehead) on a mobile toddler
Any mark you are concerned about - trust your instincts and ask your pediatrician

By Age

What to expect by age

0-12 months

Babies frequently suck on their arms, wrists, and hands for self-soothing, which can create red or purple suction marks. These marks are completely harmless. You can also see suction blisters on newborns' hands or wrists from sucking in the womb. Mongolian spots (flat, blue-gray birthmarks) can sometimes be mistaken for bruise marks. If you notice an unexplained bruise-like mark on a non-mobile baby that is not in a typical self-sucking location, discuss it with your pediatrician.

1-3 years

Toddlers may suck on their arms or hands when self-soothing, teething, or stressed, leaving temporary suction marks. These are not harmful. Toddlers also bruise easily from normal play, and round bruises can result from bumping into furniture edges or toys. If your toddler has marks you cannot explain, in unusual locations, or if you have concerns about how they were caused, speak with your pediatrician. Petechiae (tiny pinpoint red dots) can sometimes look like marks and should be evaluated promptly.

What to Tell Your Pediatrician

  • Describe when you first noticed hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if the mark is in an unusual location and you are not sure of the cause.
  • Mention if marks are appearing frequently and your child does not seem to be sucking on the area.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

What Should You Do?

When to take action

Probably normal when...
  • A round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking
  • Suction blisters on a newborn's hands from sucking in the womb
  • A mark that fades over a few days
  • A bruise in a typical fall location (shins, forehead) on a mobile toddler
Mention at your next visit when...
  • The mark is in an unusual location and you are not sure of the cause
  • Marks are appearing frequently and your child does not seem to be sucking on the area
  • The mark is not fading after a week
  • You want reassurance about the cause of any mark on your baby
Act now when...
  • Unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby
  • Marks accompanied by petechiae (tiny red dots that don't blanch when pressed)
  • Multiple unexplained marks in different stages of healing
  • Any mark you are concerned about - trust your instincts and ask your pediatrician

What You Can Do at Home

  • Keep track of when you notice hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
  • Remember that a round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking — this is generally within the range of normal.
  • At 0-12 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
  • Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products on your baby's skin. Avoid over-bathing — 2-3 baths per week is usually sufficient.
  • While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby.

Baby Has a Bruise That Won't Go Away

Most bruises in toddlers are completely normal and result from the bumps and tumbles of learning to walk and play. A typical bruise goes through a color cycle (red to blue/purple to green/yellow) and resolves within 2-3 weeks. Bruises on the shins, knees, and forehead are very common in active toddlers. However, bruises in unusual locations (torso, back, ears, neck), bruises in pre-mobile babies, or easy/excessive bruising may need medical evaluation to rule out bleeding disorders or other concerns.

Baby Birthmarks

Birthmarks are extremely common -- more than 80% of babies have at least one. Most birthmarks are completely harmless and many fade or disappear on their own over time. The type, location, and any changes over time help your pediatrician determine whether any follow-up is needed.

Petechiae (Tiny Red Dots) on My Baby

Petechiae are tiny red, purple, or brown dots caused by broken blood vessels just under the skin. While they can appear after vigorous crying, coughing, or vomiting in healthy babies, they can also signal serious conditions. Always contact your pediatrician if you notice petechiae, especially if they appear suddenly or are widespread.

My Baby Has Blue-Gray Spots on Their Skin

Mongolian spots are flat, blue-gray birthmarks that commonly appear on the lower back, buttocks, or shoulders of babies with darker skin tones. They are completely harmless, caused by pigment cells deep in the skin, and usually fade by school age. They are not bruises and do not require any treatment.

Guide

Baby Skin Conditions Guide

Visual guide to common baby skin conditions, rashes, and when to see a doctor.

Guide

When to Call the Doctor

General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.

Frequently asked questions

Is hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin normal?
A hickey-like or suction bruise on a baby's skin is surprisingly common and is usually self-inflicted. Babies and toddlers frequently suck on their own arms, hands, and wrists, creating round, reddish-purple marks that look like a hickey. These are harmless and fade within a few days to a week. Other causes of similar-looking marks include a hemangioma (birthmark), a bruise from a fall, or rarely a skin condition. If the mark appeared suddenly without a clear explanation and is in an unusual location, consult your pediatrician.
When should I call the doctor about hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin?
Unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby Marks accompanied by petechiae (tiny red dots that don't blanch when pressed) Multiple unexplained marks in different stages of healing
When is hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin normal?
A round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking Suction blisters on a newborn's hands from sucking in the womb A mark that fades over a few days
What causes hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin?
A hickey-like or suction bruise on a baby's skin is surprisingly common and is usually self-inflicted. Babies and toddlers frequently suck on their own arms, hands, and wrists, creating round, reddish-purple marks that look like a hickey. These are harmless and fade within a few days to a week. Other causes of similar-looking marks include a hemangioma (birthmark), a bruise from a fall, or rarely a skin condition. If the mark appeared suddenly without a clear explanation and is in an unusual location, consult your pediatrician. Common explanations include: A round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking. Suction blisters on a newborn's hands from sucking in the womb.
What should I mention to my pediatrician about hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin?
You should mention hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin at your next visit if: The mark is in an unusual location and you are not sure of the cause. Marks are appearing frequently and your child does not seem to be sucking on the area. The mark is not fading after a week.
Is hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin normal at 0-12 months?
Babies frequently suck on their arms, wrists, and hands for self-soothing, which can create red or purple suction marks. These marks are completely harmless. You can also see suction blisters on newborns' hands or wrists from sucking in the womb. Mongolian spots (flat, blue-gray birthmarks) can sometimes be mistaken for bruise marks. If you notice an unexplained bruise-like mark on a non-mobile baby that is not in a typical self-sucking location, discuss it with your pediatrician.
Is hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin normal at 1-3 years?
Toddlers may suck on their arms or hands when self-soothing, teething, or stressed, leaving temporary suction marks. These are not harmful. Toddlers also bruise easily from normal play, and round bruises can result from bumping into furniture edges or toys. If your toddler has marks you cannot explain, in unusual locations, or if you have concerns about how they were caused, speak with your pediatrician. Petechiae (tiny pinpoint red dots) can sometimes look like marks and should be evaluated promptly.
Should I go to the ER for hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin?
Seek emergency care if unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby, or if marks accompanied by petechiae (tiny red dots that don't blanch when pressed). When in doubt, call your pediatrician's after-hours line for guidance.
Does hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin go away on its own?
In many cases, hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin resolves on its own, especially when a round mark on the arm or wrist from self-sucking.
AAPAAPNIH

References

  1. [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Bruises in Children. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
  2. [2]American Academy of Pediatrics. Skin Conditions. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
  3. [3]National Library of Medicine. Bruising in Children. NIH

Doctor Visit Checklist

Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Hickey-Like Mark or Suction Bruise on Baby's Skin.

Things to mention

  • Describe when you first noticed hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin and how it has changed over time.
  • Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
  • Mention if the mark is in an unusual location and you are not sure of the cause.
  • Mention if marks are appearing frequently and your child does not seem to be sucking on the area.
  • Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
  • Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

Observations to share

  • The mark is in an unusual location and you are not sure of the cause
  • Marks are appearing frequently and your child does not seem to be sucking on the area
  • The mark is not fading after a week

Urgent signs to report immediately

  • Unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby
  • Marks accompanied by petechiae (tiny red dots that don't blanch when pressed)
  • Multiple unexplained marks in different stages of healing

My notes

From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members

Related Resources

Baby Skin Conditions GuideEmergency ContactsBaby Tracker

Bottom line

Most cases of hickey-like mark or suction bruise on baby's skin are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if unexplained bruise-like marks on a non-mobile baby.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

Share:FacebookX

Was this page helpful?

Related Skin Concerns

Baby Has a Bruise That Won't Go Away

Most bruises in toddlers are completely normal and result from the bumps and tumbles of learning to walk and play. A typical bruise goes through a color cycle (red to blue/purple to green/yellow) and resolves within 2-3 weeks. Bruises on the shins, knees, and forehead are very common in active toddlers. However, bruises in unusual locations (torso, back, ears, neck), bruises in pre-mobile babies, or easy/excessive bruising may need medical evaluation to rule out bleeding disorders or other concerns.

Baby Birthmarks

Birthmarks are extremely common -- more than 80% of babies have at least one. Most birthmarks are completely harmless and many fade or disappear on their own over time. The type, location, and any changes over time help your pediatrician determine whether any follow-up is needed.

Petechiae (Tiny Red Dots) on My Baby

Petechiae are tiny red, purple, or brown dots caused by broken blood vessels just under the skin. While they can appear after vigorous crying, coughing, or vomiting in healthy babies, they can also signal serious conditions. Always contact your pediatrician if you notice petechiae, especially if they appear suddenly or are widespread.

My Baby Has Blue-Gray Spots on Their Skin

Mongolian spots are flat, blue-gray birthmarks that commonly appear on the lower back, buttocks, or shoulders of babies with darker skin tones. They are completely harmless, caused by pigment cells deep in the skin, and usually fade by school age. They are not bruises and do not require any treatment.

My Baby Has an Extra Nipple (Accessory Nipple)

Accessory (supernumerary) nipples are one of the most common minor congenital findings, occurring in about 1 in 18 people. They appear as small, flat, often pigmented bumps along the "milk line" — an embryonic line running from the armpit to the groin on each side. Most people mistake them for moles. Accessory nipples are almost always harmless and require no treatment. In rare cases, they may be associated with kidney abnormalities, so some pediatricians recommend a renal ultrasound if one is found, though this practice varies.

My Baby Was Born with a Raw Spot on Their Scalp (Aplasia Cutis)

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a condition where a baby is born with a small area of missing skin, most commonly on the scalp. It occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births. The affected area may look like a raw wound, an ulcer, or may have already healed into a thin, shiny scar by the time of birth. Most cases are small, isolated, and heal well with basic wound care — the area eventually forms a hairless scar. Larger defects or those associated with other findings may need more investigation, but isolated small ACC has an excellent prognosis.