May 31, 2021

Common Reasons Why Children Visit a Dermatologist

When it comes to kids, the dermatological needs are different from what they are in adults. Let’s talk about this.

The ailments children may suffer from can be wildly different from what adults suffer when it comes to dermatology. This could be discovering bumps on the fingers of a budding teenager (indicating acne flare-up) or even something else. A dermatologist can provide a treatment to get the child through an uncomfortable time.

The Most Common Skin Conditions in Children:

1. Warts & Molluscum

Generally caused by viral infections, warts are hard bumps commonly found on hands, feet, and fingers while molluscum contagiosum can appear on the legs, arms, neck, and face (rarely on the palms of the hands or even the soles of the feet). Warts can easily be contracted through direct contact or locker rooms and showers.

What the Dermatologist does for Warts & Molluscum in Children

For treating molluscum, the dermatologist might recommend a topical treatment that’s available over the counter. Apart from this, using trichloroacetic acid to destroy it with chemicals can also be done.

While for warts, depending on the age of the child, a dermatologist might freeze the wart through cryotherapy, or burn it off with a laser. The dermatologist might even prescribe oral medication or cream to boost the immune system’s general response to warts.

2. Atopic Dermatitis

Also known as eczema, atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that affects newborns and goes into adulthood. Many young babies grow out of it by the time they are 3 but knowing the causes and minimizing the symptoms eases any discomfort.

What the Dermatologist suggests for Atopic Dermatitis in Children

The dermatologist might suggest minimizing long, hot baths and being mindful of scratchy or tight clothing. Keeping skin moisturized while making sure to get a food allergy test and creating a diet that avoids the food triggers will also be suggested.

3. Acne

Acne flare-ups are super common in pre-teens and teenagers. While you might be thinking that the diet and bad bathing habits could be the cause but isn’t always the case. Acne can be caused by clogged pores that later develop into red, swollen bumps or even much worse, pus-filled cysts. Hormonal imbalance and stress are also common factors for acne flare-ups in children.

What the Dermatologist does for Acne in Children

First routine changes can be suggested for people who constantly suffer from acne. Peel programs can be of great help. The use of products like mousse, oils, and grease on the hair should also be limited.

Use water-based, non-comedogenic moisturizers in place of comedogenic moisturizes. The same logic applies to makeups.

As for the treatment, over-the-counter cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide might be suggested by the Dermatologist after evaluating the case. For more serious cases, topical retinoids along with the use of acne wash, oral antibiotics might be recommended.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Jaspreet for your child. Simply call or WhatsApp us at +91-8826141232.