Supporting healthy skin from the start: FAQs about pediatric dermatology
Not all dermatology practices in Brevard County offer care for children’s unique needs. At ShadeTree Dermatology, we provide a trusted source of credible information and proven treatments for patients of any age so everyone can feel empowered in their skin. Ideally, it is best to foster positive habits and behaviors early, like regular sun protection, so even our youngest patients have a head start to great skin health.
What are some conditions that you commonly treat in children?
Pediatric dermatology is as vast as “adult” dermatology. Dermatologists like Dr. Vanessa Johnson are trained to protect against, spot, and treat or manage the 3,000-plus conditions affecting hair, skin, nails, and mucous membranes. Some of the most common conditions we see in children include eczema, acne, warts, birthmarks, and genetic syndromes.
What should I watch for when my child has eczema?
Eczema or atopic dermatitis affects around one of every four kids (versus up to 3% of adults diagnosed with eczema). Among the youngest children, eczema tends to manifest as very itchy, oozing rashes. As kids age, the rash can thicken, bleed, and crusts over. Our providers at ShadeTree may recommend changes in skin care to ease these distressing symptoms. For example, she may suggest soothing products, moisturizers, and shorter baths or showers. This approach can help to prevent flare-ups and also combat dry skin. For more severe eczema, she may prescribe medications or other therapies. Allergens in the environment may also trigger atopic dermatitis, so we’ll need to identify and minimize triggers.
What are some safe and effective acne treatments for my teen?
It’s estimated that 85% of teens and young adults will have experienced, at minimum, mild acne by the age of 25. Proactive professional care avoids the emotional toll that acne breakouts can take on children as they grow up and the painful physical reminders of past acne: scars. Following an evaluation, the ShadeTree Dermatology team may suggest skincare products, regimens, and therapies to prevent breakouts and improve skin clarity. Medications may be prescribed depending on the acne’s type and severity.
How do warts form, and what can I do about them?
While warts affect all ages, kids and young adults are particularly vulnerable. These growths are rooted in the papillomavirus, and they are highly contagious. So, minimizing exposure to 60-plus types of papillomavirus is essential to prevent the spread of warts. While they can go away without outside intervention, professional treatments may be in your child’s future for warts that cause pain, are particularly stubborn, or are present in sensitive and visible areas. Treatment is specific to your child and based on factors not limited to their overall health and tolerance to medications/therapy.
The links between the health of the skin and healthy development during a child's formative years are undeniable. So, screenings and appointments at ShadeTree Dermatology should begin early in life to support your child's most confident appearance and comfort in the "skin they're in." Call (321) 200-0346 to book a consultation at either our office, Rockledge, or Cocoa Beach. We are proud to serve all of Brevard County and the surrounding counties with total dermatology care for the whole family.
