Encouraging a Lifetime of Healthy Skin Right from the Beginning

Almost right from the beginning of a child's life, parents encourage their children to be healthy eaters while being active and fit. This also is an important time to promote healthy skin care. Whether washing the delicate skin of an infant or providing effective treatment for toddlers with eczema, there are numerous ways parents and dermatologists can work together to keep children's skin clean, healthy and nourished.

Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology's (Academy) SKIN Academy, dermatologist Sandra M. Johnson, MD, FAAD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Ark., discussed daily skin care for children and the treatment of common pediatric skin care conditions.

"Teaching your child healthy skin care habits and modeling these behaviors for them can be tremendously helpful in preventing and treating various skin conditions," said Dr. Johnson. "A dermatologist is an important member of your child's healthcare team and if parents have concerns about their child's skin, hair or nails, I recommend that they establish a relationship with a dermatologist so that as their child grows, their skin and body care can continue to progress on a healthy note."

Daily Skin Care for Children

The skin of toddlers is sensitive and can experience numerous changes in the
first few years of life. Parents may be concerned by their child's less-than-perfect skin, but a dermatologist can evaluate and determine which conditions will resolve themselves and which may need additional treatment.

When cleaning a toddler's skin or when it's time for toddlers to learn how to wash their own skin, the use of gentle cleansers and soaps is important, stated Dr. Johnson. Fragrance-free products or those with natural ingredients work well and will not irritate sensitive skin. Emollients which will hold moisture in the skin and prevent dry skin conditions and rashes should be applied liberally.

Most important of all, recommends Dr. Johnson, is to start children with a strong foundation in sun safety. The regular use of sunscreen is one of the best "sun-smart" tips to share with children. Dermatologists strongly recommend using a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays and that offers a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

If your child is prone to skin irritation or allergic reactions, choose a physical or chemical-free sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because the ingredients sit on top of the skin, forming a barrier against the sun's rays. If you do use a chemical-based sunscreen, do a patch test first to make sure your child won't have a reaction to it. Apply a small amount to the inside of the upper arm. If he or she develops a rash or redness at the site by the next day, choose another formula instead.