Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness, a leading pediatric dermatologist, discusses pediatric skincare. Topics include common skin conditions in children, establishing a hygiene routine, sun protection, when to start using shampoo and conditioner, and the importance of gentle practices and moisturizers. The podcast also explores skin issues in school-age children, access to pediatric dermatologists, and resources for finding one.
Baby's skin is thinner and more sensitive, requiring gentle skincare practices and fragrance-free products.
Good skincare practices for older children include using hypoallergenic cleansers, moisturizers, and sun protection.
Teenagers should establish good hygiene habits and seek medical attention for severe acne or scarring.
Understanding the difference between skin allergies and food allergies is important for parents seeking appropriate medical advice.
Deep dives
Understanding Pediatric Dermatology
Pediatric dermatology is a subspecialty that focuses on skin disease in babies, kids, and teens. Pediatric dermatologists receive specialized training to address the unique skin care needs of children. Baby's skin is thinner and more sensitive, making them prone to irritation and dryness. It takes about two years for their skin barrier to mature. Additionally, babies have a higher body surface area to weight ratio, which makes them more susceptible to absorbing chemicals from products applied to their skin.
Caring for Infant Skin
Infant skin is thinner, more sensitive, and prone to dryness and irritation. Bathing is recommended, using lukewarm water and a gentle, non-soap cleanser a few times a week. After bathing, applying a moisturizer, preferably fragrance and essential oil-free, can help keep the baby's skin hydrated. Parents should choose products that are hypoallergenic and safe for infant skin, as their thinner skin may be more susceptible to developing allergic reactions to certain ingredients.
Skin Care for School-Age Children
The skin of older toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children is still in the process of maturing. Good skin care practices such as using gentle, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleansers and moisturizers, and introducing shampoo and conditioner a couple of times a week, can help maintain healthy skin. Sun protection is crucial, and using protective clothing, seeking shade, and relying on a high UV index on weather apps are important in addition to using sunscreens on exposed areas. In school-age children, mid-childhood is a time when acne should not be present, so if acne develops, it could be a sign of early puberty and needs investigation.
Managing Skin Issues in Teens
Teenagers may experience acne and it's essential to establish good hygiene habits like washing the face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. More severe acne with inflammation and scarring may require additional treatment and medical attention. It's important for parents to monitor and seek professional advice if acne becomes more severe or leads to scarring. Additionally, good skin care practices, including using fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products, can help teenagers maintain healthy skin.
Understanding Allergies and Skin Issues
Skin allergies, such as contact dermatitis, are different from food allergies. Eczema, a skin barrier defect, is usually not caused by specific foods, although children with eczema may be more prone to developing food allergies. Avoiding suspected food allergens may not necessarily improve eczema symptoms, and restricting early food exposure can potentially increase the risk of developing allergies. It's important for parents to understand the difference between skin allergies and food allergies and seek appropriate medical advice.
Accessing Pediatric Dermatology
Accessing pediatric dermatology can be limited, but resources like the Society for Pediatric Dermatology's website can help find pediatric dermatologists near you. Consulting with a local dermatologist or pediatrician for referrals is also an option. Educational resources and information about various skin conditions can be found on the Society for Pediatric Dermatology's website.
Promoting General Skin Health
General skin health practices include keeping skin care simple, using fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products, and following good hygiene habits. Establishing these habits at an early age, such as washing the face twice a day and applying a moisturizer, can help children maintain healthy skin. Regular monitoring and seeking professional advice when necessary can address any skin concerns and ensure optimal skin health.
Sponsored by Mustela
This episode is sponsored by Mustela, a skin care line that offers safe and effective products for baby's skin care needs. Mustela's products are made with vetted ingredients and address common skin conditions such as diaper rash, cradle cap, baby acne, and eczema.
Discover the essentials of pediatric skincare with Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness, a leading pediatric dermatologist. From understanding common skin conditions in children to deciphering the best skincare practices for various age groups, Dr. Maguiness guides us through it all. We delve into when to establish a hygiene routine with your kids, the best forms of sun protection, what age to start using shampoo and conditioner and more!
Visit Mustelausa.com and use code HUMANS at checkout for 15% off your first order.
Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.
