Pediatric Skin Conditions: Common Issues & Treatments

Children’s skin is delicate and prone to various conditions due to their developing immune systems and frequent exposure to environmental factors. While some pediatric skin issues are temporary and harmless, others may require medical attention.

Here’s a guide to common pediatric skin conditions, their causes, and treatments, helping parents understand when to seek professional help.

Common Pediatric Skin Conditions

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Symptoms: Dry, itchy, red patches, often on the face, elbows, and knees.
Causes: Genetics, allergens, irritants, weather changes.

Treatment:

Use fragrance-free moisturizers and soaps.
Apply prescription creams if severe.
Identify and avoid triggers like dust, pet dander, and certain fabrics.

Tip: Keeping the skin hydrated can prevent flare-ups!

2. Diaper Rash

Symptoms: Red, inflamed skin in the diaper area, sometimes with blisters.
Causes: Prolonged moisture, friction, irritation from diapers or wipes.

Treatment:

Change diapers frequently and use a barrier cream (zinc oxide).
Allow air exposure to affected areas.
Use fragrance-free wipes and mild detergents.

Tip: Let your baby go diaper-free for short periods to help healing.

3. Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis in Infants)

Symptoms: Yellow, scaly, crusty patches on the scalp.
Causes: Overactive oil glands in newborns, possibly triggered by maternal hormones.

Treatment:

Gently massage the scalp with baby oil and use a soft brush to loosen flakes.
Wash the scalp with mild baby shampoo.

Tip: Cradle cap is harmless and usually resolves within a few months.

4. Heat Rash (Miliaria)

Symptoms: Small red bumps or blisters, usually on the neck, chest, and folds of the skin.
Causes: Overheating, excessive sweating, and blocked sweat glands.

Treatment:

Dress the child in light, breathable clothing.
Keep the skin cool and dry.
Use calamine lotion to soothe irritation.

Tip: Avoid excessive layering in hot weather!

5. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Symptoms: Painful sores in the mouth, and red spots on hands and feet.
Causes: Viral infection (Coxsackievirus).

Treatment:

Give plenty of fluids and soft foods.
Use pain relievers like paracetamol (if prescribed).
Keep the child at home to prevent spreading.

Tip: HFMD spreads easily, so practice good hand hygiene!

6. Impetigo

Symptoms: Red sores that burst and form honey-colored crusts (often around the mouth and nose).
Causes: Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus or Streptococcus).

Treatment:

Apply prescribed antibiotic ointments or oral antibiotics if severe.
Keep the affected area clean and covered.

Tip: Prevent spreading by washing hands frequently and not sharing towels.

7. Warts & Molluscum Contagiosum

Symptoms: Small, flesh-colored bumps or rough growths on hands, feet, or other body parts.
Causes: HPV (warts) or poxvirus (molluscum contagiosum) infections.

Treatment:

Most cases resolve on their own.
Cryotherapy or medicated creams may be needed.

Tip: Avoid scratching to prevent spreading to other areas!

8. Ringworm (Tinea)

Symptoms: Red, scaly, circular rash that may itch.
Causes: Fungal infection (often from pets or shared objects).

Treatment:

Apply antifungal creams as prescribed.
Keep skin dry and avoid sharing towels or brushes.

Tip: If the scalp is affected, oral antifungals may be required.

When to See a Pediatric Dermatologist?

Consult a specialist if your child’s skin condition:
Doesn’t improve with home remedies.
Is painful, widespread, or infected.
Affects daily activities or sleep.
Is accompanied by fever or other symptoms.

Healthy skin means a happy child!