No matter how healthy your children may be, skin issues can still arise from time to time. It is important to pay attention to any new developments that may present themselves because skin conditions in children can often be more severe or have different effects than the same conditions in adults. From common rashes to hormone-inducing acne, your dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, can assess the situation and identify what methods of treatment will best suit your child’s needs.
Some common skin problems in children (which we will go into more detail about below) are eczema, sunburn, and warts.
Eczema
A common skin condition for adults and children alike, this itchy, red rash forms dry patches all over the body, usually for no reason at all. It can be hard to diagnose initially because it looks similar to other rashes and psoriasis. To help narrow the options down, think about the timing of the rash, the location of it on your child’s body and any patterns of flares up. Always share any information you have about the rash or condition with your dermatologist during your child’s appointment.
Ways to prevent your child’s eczema from flaring up include avoiding known triggers (harsh soaps, food allergies, etc) and keeping the skin moisturized. Your dermatologist can prescribe different medications to help prevent discomfort of eczema so that it will clear up as quickly as possible. Although there is no cure for eczema, it is possible that your child can grow out of it.
Sunburn
With the spring and summer seasons upon us, exposure to the sun is inevitable. Make sure your children are protected! Even if they are only outside for a few minutes or it is an overcast day, the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays can still wreck havoc on your child’s skin. Try to avoid sunburns at all cost. To prevent sun damage, chose sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and SPF of 30 or higher.
If your child is spending a whole day outside, such as on the lake or at the beach, additional protection might be in order. Sunglasses, a hat, and a light layer of clothing can offer more protection from the sun’s rays.
Perhaps your child has already experienced a burn. Home remedies such as cool compresses or aloe vera can work on minor burns, but always take special care to determine whether a child needs professional medical treatment. Children are especially at risk for long lasting skin damage. As always, this blog serves to inform, but none of the information outlined here should ever replace proper medical care and attention. To read our disclaimer, click here.
Warts
Warts, while not a desirable condition, are usually harmless when they show up in children. The most common wart is a hard, round and small bump that usually occurs on hands or fingers. Most of the time they go away on their own, but if your child is experiencing a wart that is bothersome or won’t heal, seek attention from your dermatologist.
The most widely used method of wart treatment/removal at the dermatologist involves use of liquid nitrogen. This might sting a little, but a good physician will take care to make sure your child is comfortable and and avoid as much pain as possible. Some warts, if large or deeply rooted, may require follow-up treatments, but as long as you follow your physicians orders, everything should heal up in a matter of time.
In today’s Skin School Blog, we’ve touched on a few of the skin ailments that children commonly face. These are just three possible issues, but if your child is experiencing any other type of skin condition or concern, contact your dermatologist.
Is your child experiencing any types of skin issues that might need to be addressed by a dermatologist? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to have your child’s skin examined so you can feel confident about the health of his or her skin. We are here to provide your child the necessary skincare so he can reach his fullest, healthiest potential.
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.
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