Dermatologists Address Pediatric Skincare Concerns
Heading to the pediatrician is nothing new for parents. Taking your children to the doctor for their annual checkups or heading into the office with any concerns is a common occurrence. What may not be as well known is that most skincare issues parents take to the doctor will be referred to a skincare specialist, most likely a reputable dermatologist with experience in pediatric skincare. Anything that causes children discomfort, pain, or embarrassment sends parents either searching online for answers or heading in for help. Although taking a home remedy or over-the-counter approach may work on some milder cases of common pediatric skin conditions, some should be professionally diagnosed and require prescription topicals or medications. The three most common concerns brought to pediatric dermatologists are psoriasis, acne, and signs that the skin has an allergic reaction.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis are common, and because they both look similar, it is difficult to diagnose without a further diagnosis from a professional. Psoriasis also usually affects more than one part of the body. Dermatitis means skin irritation. Having many causes and appearing differently, it usually is symptomatic with rashes, and dry skin that may be blistering or flaking, which causes the skin to itch. It is difficult to explain to a toddler why they can’t itch, and even so, inevitably, they do anyway. The sooner a professional gets involved and can provide some reputable and effective topical relief, the better.
The use of athletic shin guards is known to cause skin reactions in children as well. The protective gear’s material is known to cause allergic reactions in many using them for athletics. A prescription to treat these reactions can be done through a licensed dermatologist who practices pediatric dermatology.
Toilet seat reactions are more typical than most would think. Since small children cannot hold a squat above the toilet seat, many school-age children may contact dermatitis from the toilet seat or the cleaner being used. The rash on the bottom and top of the legs, resembling the shape of a toilet seat, is a good indicator of what is causing the reaction.
Pediatric psoriasis cases have been on the rise. Due to the disease’s inflammatory nature, when seeking professional dermatological treatment, a family history of related conditions should be considered and openly shared to achieve success as soon as possible.
Acne in Children and Teens
The second most recorded condition by pediatric dermatologists is childhood acne. Toddler acne often appears on the cheeks and happens between 6 months and 18 months. This type of acne is essential to address because the pimples may lead to scarring if not treated. Acne that appears in children between three and seven years is not typical and may be an allergic reaction or indicate some other medical condition that a professional should diagnose.
Teen acne is the most common pediatric skin issue. Some choose antibiotics and birth control as a solution, but a family history of any blood clotting issues or smoking history can negatively affect the patient. Although many over-the-counter products offer relief, they are often not sufficient. Additionally, medical professionals may prescribe something to change the chemical balance to reduce acne, but only a professional dermatologist can provide the most effective solutions for teens.
Skin’s Allergic Reactions Revealed in Eczema
Dry, itchy skin is typically a result of the body’s immune system reacting to an allergen. Common skin irritations are in response to animal exposure, dust, cleaners, detergents, certain foods, pollen, soaps, and lotions. It is difficult to know when a rash first appears, which, if any, of these were the culprit in causing the reaction. Removing potential allergens from the environment where the child spends time can be a practical approach. Still, it is lengthy as allergens should be re-introduced one at a time to pinpoint which is causing the reaction. An experienced dermatologist will have the experience and knowledge to help make this process faster in finding out what is creating the skin irritation and recommending effective treatments. This approach provides faster results and gives the youth the relief they deserve more pointedly.
When it comes to our children, we work diligently to provide them with all the care they need to be healthy and happy. The reaction is the same whenever a skin condition appears, no matter how common. It seems urgent, and sometimes indeed, it is something that needs to be addressed immediately. Anytime skin shows signs of infection or extreme cases of skin reactions appear and bring pain and discomfort, professional advice is essential.
If you are in the Atlanta area, Dr. Sherry Straughn of Buckhead Dermatology has years of experience helping pediatric patients. Offering a gentle approach to young patients, Dr. Straughn understands children’s needs and knows which topical and prescription products are safe for pediatric patients. Finding effective solutions for children and their families is her top priority anytime a new patient comes to her office with a skincare concern.