Pediatric

What is pediatric dermatology?

Pediatric dermatology focuses on skin conditions that frequently affect infants, children, adolescents, and teenagers. 

Children have thinner, more fragile skin than adults. Their immune systems are also underdeveloped, leaving them vulnerable to infections, rashes, and other health concerns that can damage the skin. Many children play sports and engage in activities that can injure their skin or spread contagious viruses and infections to others.

At Salida Dermatology, the pediatric specialists diagnose and treat skin concerns in children. They can develop individualized care plans to ensure every child feels comfortable in their skin.

What are the most common pediatric skin concerns?

Children are susceptible to a range of skin concerns that can impact the health and appearance of their skin. Some of the most common skin conditions that affect children include:

• Warts
• Diaper rash
• Cradle cap
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Acne
• Rashes
• Ringworm
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Scabies
• Skin allergies
• Hives

While these skin concerns can be frustrating for children and their caregivers, proper treatment can relieve uncomfortable symptoms and manage these conditions.

What should I do if my child has a pediatric skin concern?

If your child has signs of skin conditions, such as redness, dry skin, or slow-healing sores, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with the expert dermatology specialists at Salida Dermatology. 

The providers perform thorough skin checks to determine the underlying cause of your child’s symptoms. Tests they may recommend include:

• Skin biopsy
• Skin scraping
• Cultures
• Skin prick test
• Blood test
• Patch testing
• Wood lamp examination

If your child shows signs of skin allergies, their dermatology provider may recommend eliminating certain foods or products for testing. Multiple tests are often necessary to diagnose skin concerns.

How can I protect my child’s skin?

Consistent sun protection is one of the simplest ways to prevent damage to your child’s skin. Acquiring sunburns before age 20 increases a child’s risk of developing skin cancer later in life. You can help protect your child’s skin from sun damage by:

• Applying sunscreen regularly
• Investing in protective clothing (long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, etc.)
• Avoiding tanning beds (and tanning in general)
• Moisturizing the skin

You should also avoid harsh fragrances and irritating chemical products. Your provider can also show you how to check for ticks if your child regularly plays outside.

Call Salida Dermatology or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about pediatric skin care.