Pediatric dermatology

When should you see a pediatric dermatologist?

If you notice any changes affecting your child's skin, hair, or nails, it is best not to wait for the problem to resolve on its own. A pediatric dermatologist can identify the underlying cause of the symptoms, recommend appropriate treatment, and help prevent possible complications. You should schedule a consultation if your child has:

• any type of skin rash or unexplained skin changes;
• red, itchy, or peeling skin;
• dry, cracked, or weeping areas of skin;
• a rash that does not improve or keeps coming back;
• warts, papillomas, or molluscum contagiosum;
• signs of a fungal skin or nail infection;
• pimples, pustules, boils, or other inflamed skin lesions;
• moles or other skin growths that have changed in appearance;
• hair loss or patches of thinning hair;
• changes in the colour, shape, or texture of the nails;
• acne that requires medical treatment;
• symptoms that persist despite home care or repeatedly return.

What happens during a pediatric dermatologist consultation?

Your appointment begins with a detailed discussion about your child's symptoms. The doctor will ask when the problem first appeared, how it has changed over time, whether your child has been exposed to potential allergens, new skincare products, pets, or anyone with a contagious skin condition. Previous illnesses, family history, and any treatments already used are also important.

The pediatric dermatologist will then carefully examine your child's skin, hair, and nails, assessing the appearance, location, and characteristics of any lesions or rashes. If necessary, additional diagnostic tests or consultations with other specialists may be recommended.

A pediatric dermatologist diagnoses and treats:

• atopic, contact, and allergic dermatitis;
• eczema;
• urticaria (hives);
• fungal skin and nail infections;
• bacterial and viral skin infections;
• molluscum contagiosum;
• warts;
• ringworm and other fungal conditions;
• acne in children and teenagers;
• hair and nail disorders;
• benign skin lesions and moles.

After the consultation, you will receive a medical report, personalised skincare recommendations, a treatment plan, and, if needed, guidance on further investigations or follow-up visits.

Why shouldn't you treat a rash on your own?

Many childhood skin rashes may look similar but have completely different causes. Redness, itching, or irritation may result from allergies, atopic dermatitis, fungal or bacterial infections, viral illnesses, or other medical conditions. It is often impossible to determine the exact cause based on appearance alone.

Using steroid creams, antibiotics, antifungal medications, or home remedies without medical advice may temporarily reduce symptoms without treating the underlying condition. In some cases, self-treatment can alter the appearance of the rash, making an accurate diagnosis more difficult and delaying appropriate treatment.

It is especially important to seek medical attention if the rash spreads quickly, is accompanied by pain, fever, oozing, pus-filled lesions, or if your child's overall condition worsens.

Seeing a pediatric dermatologist promptly helps identify the cause of the problem, start effective treatment early, and reduce the risk of complications. If your child's symptoms have appeared for the first time or have not improved within a few days, we recommend booking a Pediatric Dermatologist Consultation or a Lead Pediatric Dermatologist Consultation.