Children’s skin tends to be highly sensitive. Between sports, school, and outdoor play, it’s not unusual for rashes, bumps, or breakouts to appear — and sometimes, it’s difficult for parents to know what’s normal versus what needs medical attention. Here’s what every parent should know about some of the most common pediatric skin conditions we see in our dermatology practice, and how our specialists can help your child find relief and regain their confidence.
Molluscum Contagiosum
What it is:
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that causes small, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple in the center. They may appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the torso, arms, and legs.
How it spreads:
Molluscum is caused by a poxvirus and it can spread through skin-to-skin contact, shared towels, or even unassuming objects like gym mats. It’s very common in children and can easily spread in daycares, schools, and sports settings.
What to look for:
The bumps, though usually painless, can become red or itchy when irritated. Scratching may cause them to spread to nearby areas.
Treatment:
While molluscum can resolve on its own over time, treatment can help prevent spreading and reduce irritation. Options include topical therapies, in-office treatments such as curettage or cryotherapy (freezing), or prescription creams. Our dermatologists will guide you in choosing the safest, most effective treatment for your child.
Warts
What they are:
Warts are small, rough bumps caused by strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often appear on hands, fingers, knees, or feet.
How they spread:
Warts are transmitted by touch, which may include direct skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces like locker room floors or sports equipment.
What to look for:
They can be flesh-colored, rough, and sometimes painful, especially on the soles of the feet.
Treatment:
Over-the-counter wart removers are rarely effective for kids, and at-home remedies often cause discomfort or infection. In-office treatments such as cryotherapy, chemical peels, or other methods performed by our dermatologists can safely and effectively remove warts and reduce recurrence.
Acne
What it is:
Contrary to what many people think, acne isn’t just a teenage problem; it can actually start in childhood and worsen during puberty. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
What to look for:
Breakouts may appear on the face, chest, or back. Hormonal changes, stress, and certain skincare or hair products can all play a role.
Treatment:
Early intervention can prevent scarring and boost self-esteem. Our dermatologists personalize acne care with medical-grade topical or oral treatments, lifestyle guidance, and skincare plans tailored to your child’s skin type.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
What it is:
Eczema is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin. It often appears in early childhood and may flare with changes in weather, stress, or allergens.
What to look for:
Patches of dry, red, or scaly skin—often on the elbows, knees, cheeks, or hands—that cause itching or discomfort.
Treatment:
Moisturizing is key, but persistent eczema usually requires prescription creams, ointments, or allergy testing to identify triggers. Our Dermatology specialists can design a customized plan to help control flare-ups, protect the skin barrier, and keep your child comfortable.
Impetigo
What it is:
Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection seen most often in young children. It typically begins as red sores or blisters that can break open and form a honey-colored crust.
How it spreads:
Impetigo spreads easily through close contact, scratching, or sharing items such as towels, clothing, or sports equipment. It often develops when bacteria enter the skin through small cuts, insect bites, or existing rashes.
What to look for:
Sores are most commonly found around the nose and mouth but can appear anywhere on the body. The affected areas may be itchy or mildly uncomfortable.
Treatment:
Prompt treatment is important to prevent spreading and speed healing. Depending on severity, treatment may include topical or oral antibiotics prescribed by one of our dermatologists. With proper care, impetigo typically clears quickly and completely.
Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease
What it is:
Hand, foot & mouth disease is a common viral illness in young children that causes a rash or blister-like sores on the hands, feet, mouth, and sometimes the buttocks or legs. It is most often caused by enteroviruses.
How it spreads:
The virus spreads easily through close personal contact, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Outbreaks are common in daycare and school settings.
What to look for:
Symptoms may include fever, sore throat, and painful mouth sores, followed by a rash or small blisters on the hands and feet. Some children may also experience decreased appetite or fatigue.
Treatment:
Hand, foot & mouth disease typically resolves on its own, but supportive care can help manage symptoms. Our dermatology specialists can help confirm the diagnosis, rule out other conditions, and provide guidance on symptom relief and preventing spread to others.
When to See a Dermatologist
These pediatric skin conditions are quite common, but they can sometimes resemble one another, thus making it difficult to diagnose or treat at home. A professional evaluation by a Dermatology specialist at Advanced Specialty Care can ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment tailored to your child’s skin and comfort level. We treat children of all ages with gentle, effective care for all skin concerns. Whether your child has bumps, rashes, or breakouts, we’ll help restore their healthy skin and your peace of mind.
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—Kenneth Helmandollar, MD
Dr. Kenneth Helmandollar specializes in a range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, blistering diseases, acne, as well as the detection & treatment of skin cancers. He performs surgical excisions of benign & malignant lesions, cosmetic procedures including injectables, and patch testing for Allergic Contact Dermatitis. He is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Helmandollar is now accepting patients in Danbury, Ridgefield & Norwalk.
ADVANCED SPECIALTY CARE
Advanced Specialty Care’s Dermatology practice is welcoming and patient-centered, specializing in all of your family’s skincare needs from head-to-toe. Our board-certified Dermatologists excel in general medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology for patients of all ages, with expertise which allows them to not only diagnose and treat complex skin conditions, but also improve the appearance and condition of the skin.
Call (203) 830-4700 to schedule an appointment with one of our Dermatology specialists at any of our convenient office locations in Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, or Ridgefield, CT.