Skin rashes are very common in children and are usually no cause for concern. But in some cases, these may be due to a chronic skin condition. Some types of rashes do not go away on their own and need medical treatment that only a pediatric dermatologist can provide. What are the most common causes of skin rash in children?
Heat
Also known as prickly heat rash, it is common in infants and children with the sweat glands getting blocked. Heat rash often occurs in the folds of the skin. Keeping your children cool and the skin bare helps prevent heat rash.
Diaper Irritation
Diapers can irritate the skin and cause dermatitis. The rashes may appear red, scaly, and ulcerated. Possible causes include urine and feces in the diaper or a yeast infection developing in the diaper area. Treatment may include medicated diaper cream, the use of moisture-resistant diapers, and limiting the use of harsh cleaners, fragrant soaps, and powder in the diaper area.
Allergies
A cause of extremely itchy dry and scaly skin (at times weeping), eczema or atopic dermatitis is commonly caused by dry air and an allergic reaction to chemical or environmental irritants. This type of skin condition needs treatment by a dermatologist. Due to its extremely itchy nature, your child may be unable to resist scratching which can lead to an infection. Another allergic reaction is hives, which appear as raised bumps with pale centers that look like mosquito bites.
Fungal Infections
An imbalance in the fungal layer that covers the moist areas of the body may result in a fungal infection, which causes itching, swelling, and blistering. Ringworm is a common fungal infection that causes a ring-shaped rash to develop on the skin of the foot, groin, scalp, or face.
Acne
It may be surprising to find that acne can also affect children. Acne in children between the ages of one and six appear as whiteheads and blackheads and could be due to hyperandrogenism. Acne in children between the ages of seven and 12 may be due to preadolescence, with acne appearing in the T-zone of the face.
Impetigo
This is a highly contagious skin infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (strep) and Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. It is common between the ages of two to five and appears as itchy red bumps and fluid-filled sores that may drain.
Rashes in children can make them irritable and a cause of constant crying. There is no reason for prolonging your child’s suffering. A pediatric dermatologist can prescribe treatment for any type of skin rash.
Pediatric Dermatologist in Miami and Coral Gables
Dr. Ana M. Duarte of the Children’s Skin Center is a leading pediatric dermatologist in South Florida ready to provide your child with the most effective dermatologic treatments to relieve his/her symptoms. We maintain a kid-friendly practice and our entire team is highly-skilled in putting your child at ease. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Duarte, call our clinic at (305) 669-6555 or request an appointment online now.
