If you had a birthmark that resembled a hickey, would you offer up an unsolicited explanation or would you wait for one to ask?
Asked by
gimmedat (
3951
)
March 26th, 2009
from iPhone
I have a birthmark on the right side of my neck that looks just like a hickey. It changes color, reddens often depending on agitation, mood, etc. The people with whom I have regular contact know that it’s a Port Wine Stain, not a hickey, but I found myself in a position again today where I became self-conscious and wondered if I should offer up an explanation. I was in a meeting with some superiors, a few of which I have not met with before. One woman was obviously intrigued as she kept peering at my birthmark. I don’t normally pay it a lot of mind, but sometimes wonder if I should just put it out there.
I know I could seek laser treatment for removal, but haven’t felt the need. It’s more of a curiosity than anything else, not bothersome just there.
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8 Answers
Nah, screw ‘em. If they’re nosy enough to ask, then you get to decide if you tell them the truth or make up an outrageous story.
I find it incredibly rude that she was staring at it. You don’t need to explain a birth mark.
well when dealing with coworkers, bosses and such, or potential bosses, and you notice a person staring at the birth mark, mistaking it for a hickey can often lead to a negative opinion. If someone constantly looks at it, which is remarkably rude in itself, I’d explain it’s not a hickey, but it seems like it’d be tricky to bring that up without it seeming odd.
Ohhhh my gosh! I have a birthmark at looks just like a hickey too!!!! I usually don’t get asked about it anymore but if i notice people looking at it, I just tell them that i’m not trash and I don’t get hickeys from my husband!
If its not too huge just try make up. Mine’s not huge, but if yours really bothers you I would look into having the laser treatment. If interferes with your life that much I personally think it;s worth it, trust me, I know how you feel.
Screw em. They’ll get the hint eventually when they see you a few times and it’s always there. As far as I’m concerned, you wouldn’t ever have to explain it.
Knowing myself, I’d probably offer an explanation to the cashier at the grocery store! Not that I think you should have to, I just get really uneasy when people stare at me. If I were going on a job interview or something where first (mistaken) impressions could cause me trouble, I think I’d put makeup on it. Other than that I don’t think you should have to do or say anything about it at all, unless it would make you more comfortable to do so.
You know, it’s just an odd situation at times. I wonder what some peoples’ first impressions are, especially those people I will never come into contact with again. You all have given an interesting perspective. Thanks.
@gimmedat If we ever meet, I promise not to stare. :)
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