Children’s skin conditions are extremely common and often very distressing for both child and parent. Many rashes, birthmarks, infections, and inflammatory skin problems require specialist assessment to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe, effective treatment.

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Dr Bryan McDonald is a Consultant Dermatologist in London with extensive experience in paediatric dermatology, providing calm, child-friendly care for babies, children, and teenagers.

 

Common Skin Conditions in Children

Children frequently present with:

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

• Warts and viral rashes (Cryotherapy for warts)

• Acne in teenagers (Acne treatment)

• Birthmarks and pigmented lesions

• Rashes of unclear cause

• Psoriasis (Psoriasis treatment)

• Vitiligo (Vitiligo treatment)

• Alopecia areata / patchy hair loss (Steroid injections for alopecia)

• Urticaria (hives) (Urticaria treatment)

• Skin infections and fungal rashes

 

When should a child see a dermatologist?

You should seek specialist advice if:

• A rash is persistent or worsening

• Eczema is not responding to treatment

• Your child has unexplained hair loss

• A mole or birthmark changes

• Warts are painful, spreading, or persistent

• Recurrent hives or swelling occur

• The condition is affecting sleep, school, or confidence

 

Child-Friendly Dermatology Care

Appointments are designed to be:

• Calm and reassuring

• Thorough but gentle

• Focused on clear explanations for parents

• Safe use of medications appropriate for children

• Minimally invasive procedures where needed

Many treatments used in adults are adapted safely for paediatric use.

 

Treatments Available for Children

Depending on the condition, treatments may include:

• Prescription creams and ointments for eczema and psoriasis

• Cryotherapy for warts

• Steroid injections for alopecia areata or keloids

• Management plans for chronic urticaria

• Assessment of birthmarks and pigmented lesions

• Acne treatments for teenagers

• Advice on skincare routines and trigger avoidance

 

FAQs

1. Is eczema common in children?
Yes — eczema is one of the most common reasons children see a dermatologist.

 

2. Are steroid creams safe for children?
Yes, when prescribed correctly and monitored by a dermatologist.

 

3. Do children tolerate cryotherapy for warts?
Yes — treatment is adjusted to be gentle and well tolerated.

 

4. Should I worry about a mole on my child?
Most are harmless, but any change should be assessed with a mole check.

 

5. Can teenagers be treated for acne?
Yes — early treatment prevents scarring and improves confidence.

 

Book a consultation

If your child has a skin condition that is persistent, worrying, or not responding to treatment, you can book a paediatric dermatology consultation with Dr Bryan McDonald for expert assessment and care.