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Attention for the child, support for the parent
Recurring itching, dry skin or a new rash does not just affect the skin: it can also make sleep, play and everyday wellbeing harder. The aim of the examination is to find the cause of the problem and draw up a treatment and skin-care plan that fits into family life.
Changes that look alike can have different causes. To choose the right care, the history of the symptoms and an in-person examination are important.
Which problems are worth coming in for?
- Recurring dry skin, redness or itching: especially if scratching disturbs sleep or the symptoms last.
- Rashes and irritation: new or recurring patches, flaking or sensitive skin.
- Warts and other skin growths: if a new growth appears, spreads, becomes painful, or its cause is unclear.
- Teenage acne: if it is persistent, inflamed or scarring, or is seriously affecting your child’s confidence.
- Moles and birthmarks: if their appearance changes, they bleed or there is another new symptom.
- Hair, scalp and nail problems: patchy hair loss, lasting scalp irritation or nail changes.
Common childhood skin problems
Eczema and sensitive skin
Eczema often causes dry, itchy skin that sometimes flares up. Personalised skin care is an important part of treatment; if needed, the doctor will also recommend medication. Eczema on its own does not mean there is a food allergy behind it, and not every child needs allergy testing.
Warts and molluscum
Viral skin conditions common in childhood. Their names are similar, but they are different conditions. The right care depends on the exact diagnosis, the location, the symptoms and the child’s age.
Acne in teenagers
There is no need to wait until acne becomes severe. A dermatologist can help review your child’s skin care so far and suggest treatment suited to the type of spots.
What happens during the examination?
- Talking through the symptoms. It helps to know when the symptoms started, how they have changed, what eased or worsened them, and which products you have used so far.
- Examining the skin. The doctor looks at the affected area; depending on the problem, it may also be worth examining the hair, nails or other areas of skin.
- Talking through the next steps. If further tests are needed, you will be told separately what they are for and how they work.
- Care at home and follow-up. The consultation includes talking through the recommended skin care and treatment, and agreeing when it is worth coming back.
How to prepare for the appointment
- Bring any previous test results and a list of the medicines your child takes now and has taken before.
- Write down the names of the creams, bath products and other skin-care products you use; a photo of the packaging can also help.
- If the symptoms have changed or gone in the meantime, show us earlier, sharp photos of them.
- Think about when the symptoms began and any possible links, such as using a new product or another illness.
- Dress your child in comfortable clothes that make it easy to show the affected skin.
Please do not change the prescribed treatment yourself because of the appointment. If you are unsure whether you can use the usual product on the day, check with us beforehand.
Let’s take the first step together
When you book, let us know your child’s age and briefly what the problem is. Our team will help you choose the right clinic and tell you about available appointments and the price of the examination.
Clinical background
Sources for this general information: