Skin ExpertsSkin CareNewborns and Children

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Skin Care for Newborns and Children

Skin-related problems for newborns and children

Skin conditions can and often do appear at birth. Congenital skin lesions, vascular birthmarks and moles may be present in newborns. While some birthmarks are minor and without medical implications, others are more severe and can cause significant psychological problems as well as functional impairment.

  • Congenital skin lesions in newborns are most often benign and self-limiting. Your baby's healthcare provider can help determine if any course of action is necessary.
     
  • Fortunately, the management of vascular birthmarks has undergone tremendous changes, influenced partially by scientific advances in understanding the biology of the lesions and also by evolving laser techniques. Medicine and surgery can yield dramatic, positive physical and psychological results in infants and children. Recent advances in anesthetic creams make skin care treatments substantially less painful than in the past.
     
  • Generally moles on an infant’s or child’s skin are not a concern, and skin cancer is rare in young children. Even so, if you’re concerned, the mole should be checked by a board-certified dermatologist just to be sure. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

 

child with sunscreen

Skin-related problems and skin care in children

Parents and caregivers should take maximum care to be sure that children are not exposed to prolonged sun without proper protection. In fact, the tendency to develop skin cancer later in life has been shown to originate with sunburns in early childhood or adolescence.

Teaching sun safety is one of the best things you can do to help your child avoid sunburns. ASDS encourages skin cancer prevention and early detection through national programs like Choose Skin Health, Sun Safe Soccer and Sun Safe Surfing, as well as its legislative work through the SUNucate (also titled as the "Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer and Excessive UV Exposure in Children Act") model bill, which is designed to eliminate barriers to the use of important sun protection methods.

child with injury

Children are naturally physically active, which can result in accidental cuts and wounds.

Proper dressing of a minor wound will facilitate healing. Severe wounds will inevitably leave scars on the body. Fortunately, laser techniques and topical medications can significantly diminish visible scarring. Consult a dermatologic surgeon near you for advice and recommended treatments.