Parenting is already challenging in itself. Add to that the hurdle of having to decide what time is the right time to do what. The same thing holds true for your child’s skin care.
If you’re trying to figure out the right time to take your child to a pediatric dermatologist, here are some bits of information to help you.
Deciding When to Start Taking Your Child to Pediatric Dermatologist
There’s no hard-and-fast rule as to what should be the right age to take your child to see a pediatric dermatologist— children have varying skincare needs.
If your child doesn’t have significant skin issues (e.g., a congenital skin condition, uncontrollable rashes, a suspicious mole, or any other alarming skin condition), then you may want to wait until they reach their preteen or teenage years to schedule their first appointment. Nonetheless, if you want to be proactive about your child’s skin health, especially if they have sensitive skin, it is wise to take them to see a pediatric dermatologist as early as possible.
A visit to a pediatric dermatologist is instrumental in addressing a problem or preventing it as well as provides an opportunity to get your child educated about the importance of keeping their skin healthy and protecting it from sun damage.
How Often to Take Your Child to a Dermatologist
If your child has eczema, acne, or any skin condition that requires regular monitoring, taking your child to their pediatric dermatologist every three months is recommended. For regular skin and mole checks, having your child checked by their pediatric dermatologist every year is ideal.
Skin Conditions that Warrant a Visit to a Pediatric Dermatologist
The following are some of the various skin problems that can require a visit to a pediatric dermatologist:
- Allergic reactions (rashes and hives) due to pollen or contact with fabrics, plants (poison ivy), household chemicals, and animal dander
- Autoimmune conditions, such as psoriasis
- Contagious bacterial or viral conditions, such as vitiligo, warts, head lice, molluscum contagiosum, and nail fungus
- Diaper dermatitis
- Eczema
- Moles (particularly those that change color, size, or shape or with scalloped or notched edges)
- Severe insect bites and sunburn
Pediatric Dermatologist in Miami and Coral Gables, FL
At the Children’s Skin Center, board-certified pediatric dermatologist Dr. Ana Duarte specializes in the diagnoses, treatment, and prevention of all types of skin conditions affecting children of all ages, and she prides herself on the compassionate and comprehensive care she provides.
To arrange a consultation with Dr. Duarte or to learn more about our pediatric dermatology services, call us at (305) 669-6555, or use our request an appointment form. We have seven locations at which to serve you: Miami, Coral Gables, Miami Lakes, Doral, Miramar, Pinecrest, and West Kendall. We look forward to serving your child and your entire family!
