Pediatric Dermatology

Pediatric dermatology involves comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services for the unique skin of infants, children and adolescents. While children and adults experience many of the same skin conditions, certain conditions are more prevalent in younger patients and require special care that takes into account the growing needs of these patients. Children are often at risk for fungal and bacterial infections of the skin, as well as a wide array of other acquired and congenital conditions.

Our treatments are gentle yet successful, allowing children to engage in their everyday activities while efficiently managing their skin ailment. Children with healthy skin can also be seen by our doctor for regular examinations to learn about proper skin care, including adequate sun protection. Early examination by a dermatologist can promote a lifetime of healthy skin for our pediatric patients.

Our team is highly skilled and experienced in treating pediatric skin conditions and strives to provide a comfortable, safe and worry-free experience for both child and parent. We take the time to educate parents about their child’s condition to help ensure proper treatment and home care so children can enjoy clear, healthy skin as they grow.

Acne

Acne involves an abnormality within the oil glands that causes skin cells to reproduce and develop pimples, whiteheads and other lesions on the surface of the skin. This may occur as a result of hormones, heredity, cosmetics, stress, bacteria or other factors. Acne is most common in teenagers, but can affect patients of all ages.

Almost all teenagers have at least some acne, and as many as one in three seek treatment to correct this condition. Treatment for acne can vary depending on the type, severity and location of acne lesions, but may include topical or oral medications, over-the-counter creams, laser treatments, cortisone injections or Accutane® (isotretinoin).

Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, refers to a group of inflamed skin conditions that result in chronic, itchy rashes and affect 10 to 20 percent of all infants. Children with eczema often experience an itchy rash that appears on the forehead, cheeks, arms and legs for a short amount of time after exposure to a trigger such as harsh soaps, dust mites, food allergies and certain clothing materials.

Although there is no cure currently available for eczema, there are several treatments available to help relieve symptoms, including topical steroids, antihistamines, immunomodulators, cold compresses and other home remedies.

Moles

Moles and other birthmarks are benign pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown and black (moles) to red, pink or purple (vascular lesions, such as strawberry hemangiomas or port wine stains). Though most birthmarks are harmless, they may develop into cancer. Moles exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by a professional immediately:

  • Larger than six millimeters.
  • Itches or bleeds.
  • Rapidly changes in color, size or shape.
  • Has multiple colors.
  • Is located where it can’t be easily monitored, such as on the scalp.

Depending on their depth, location and color, as well as the patient’s skin type, age and other factors, treatment for benign but unattractive birthmarks may take the form of laser or pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion or surgical excision.

Rashes

Rashes are areas of redness and inflammation that can appear on the skin after exposure to certain substances, including chemicals, soaps, cosmetics, poison ivy or other stimulants. There are many different conditions that cause rashes, which may be acute or chronic and tend to occur in young children.

Most rashes can be treated through simple home care practices such as avoiding soaps and bathing in warm water, while others may require moisturizing creams, prescription medications or more extensive treatment.* Parents can help their child prevent rashes by avoiding the products that irritate their skin, washing hands frequently and receiving proper vaccinations.

Warts

Warts are a common condition that develops on different areas of the body as a result of infection by a type of human papillomavirus (HPV). There are several different types of warts, which may have a different appearance and tend to occur in different areas. In general, warts tend to appear on warm, moist parts of the body, such as the hands, feet knees and elbows.

Although they can affect anyone, warts are most common in children and young adults, as they are passed through direct contact with an infected area. Warts often appear as small skin growths that may be flat or slightly raised, and can be brown, gray, pink or skin-colored. Your doctor can diagnose warts through a simple physical exam.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a skin condition involving a loss of melanin that occurs when the cells that produce this substance die or malfunction, resulting in increasing areas of depigmentation on the skin and hair. The specific cause of this condition is unknown, but is linked to immune system disorders, hereditary factors or single instances of emotional distress.

*Disclaimer, results may vary from person to person.

Do you have any questions about Pediatric Dermatology? If you would like to schedule an appointment with our dermatologists in our Los Alamitos or Agoura Hills office, please contact us for a consultation.