Dermatology for Kids: What Parents Should Know About Rashes, Warts & More - Meridian, ID

Children’s skin is not just a smaller version of adult skin—it is thinner, more delicate, and more susceptible to irritants and infections. While many rashes and bumps go away on their own, some require professional diagnosis and treatment. A pediatric dermatologist can identify whether your child’s symptoms are caused by allergies, infections, eczema, or other skin diseases and provide effective treatment options.

Rashes are one of the most frequent reasons parents bring their children to a dermatologist. They can appear suddenly, spread quickly, and cause significant discomfort. Some of the most common rashes include:

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. Eczema is very common in kids and may flare up with weather changes, allergens, or irritants.
   
• Contact Dermatitis: Caused by skin contact with an irritant such as soap, detergent, or plants like poison ivy.
   
• Viral Rashes: Many childhood illnesses, like chickenpox or hand-foot-and-mouth disease, cause rashes that may require supportive care.
   
• Diaper Rash: A common irritation caused by prolonged moisture and friction in infants and toddlers.
   

When to call a dermatologist: If your child’s rash is spreading, painful, blistering, or doesn’t improve with at-home care, it’s time to schedule a visit.

Warts are another common concern in children. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and often appear on the hands, feet, or face. Kids can pick them up easily at school, sports, or from shared surfaces.

Warts are harmless but can be embarrassing or uncomfortable, especially plantar warts on the feet that make walking painful.

Treatment options include:

• Cryotherapy (freezing)
   
• Topical medications
   
• “Beetle juice” (cantharidin), a safe blistering agent often used in kids
   
• Gentle in-office removal options
   

Pediatric dermatologists at Mountain Pine Dermatology usually recommend treatment if warts are painful, spreading, or not improving on their own. Contact us for a consultation and wart removal.

Eczema isn’t just a rash; it’s a chronic skin condition that can affect your child’s quality of life. Children with eczema may struggle with constant itching, disrupted sleep, and increased skin infections.

At Mountain Pine Dermatology, we offer personalized eczema treatment plans that may include:

• Prescription creams to reduce inflammation
   
• Antihistamines to control itching
   
• Lifestyle and skincare recommendations (like gentle cleansers and moisturizers)
   
• Identifying and avoiding triggers such as allergens, fabrics, or foods
   

With the right management, most children can live comfortably with eczema and experience fewer flare-ups.

Beyond rashes and warts, children can develop a wide range of other skin issues:

• Molluscum Contagiosum: A viral infection that causes small, pearl-like bumps. Often spread through swimming pools and direct contact.
   
• Hives (Urticaria): Red, itchy welts often caused by allergies or infections.
   
• Scabies: An itchy rash caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin.
   
• Ringworm (Tinea): A fungal infection that looks like a circular, scaly rash.
   
• Acne: While more common in teens, acne can sometimes affect younger children.
   

Each condition may require different treatment, and some may look similar to one another—making professional diagnosis important.

Parents should call a dermatologist if their child’s skin condition:

• Persists longer than two weeks
   
• Is painful, itchy, or disrupting sleep
   
• Spreads quickly or worsens despite at-home care
   
• Shows signs of infection (pus, swelling, fever)
   
• Causes embarrassment or affects your child’s confidence
   

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent skin issues from getting worse and help your child feel comfortable again.

At Mountain Pine Dermatology, we know that kids need a gentle touch and a supportive environment. Our providers are experienced in treating pediatric skin conditions with compassion and skill. Whether your child needs relief from eczema, wart removal, or help managing recurring rashes, our dermatology team is here to help.

We serve families across the Treasure Valley with offices in Meridian, Caldwell, Mountain Home, Emmett, and Baker City, OR. Our mission is to provide personalized, patient-first dermatology care for the whole family.

If your child is struggling with a rash, wart, or other skin condition, don’t wait. Call Mountain Pine Dermatology at 208-898-7467 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation. Together, we can help your child’s skin stay healthy, happy, and comfortable.