At the Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI), we know how distressing it can be for parents when their child experiences a skin issue that’s more than a temporary irritation. Pediatric skin conditions encompass a wide variety of medical concerns, from mild rashes to chronic or contagious skin diseases. These issues affect not just the skin itself but also a child’s comfort, sleep quality, and emotional well-being. Understanding what’s normal, what requires medical attention, and where to turn for trusted care can help families feel more confident in protecting their children’s health.
As South Florida’s trusted skin specialists, we approach pediatric care with a focus on gentle diagnostics, family education, and proven treatment methods. Our practice welcomes infants, toddlers, children, and teens with individualized support for the full spectrum of pediatric dermatologic needs.
When Should You Be Concerned About a Rash or Skin Change?
Skin issues are common during childhood, but not all require medical treatment. Still, some conditions can escalate or signal deeper immune responses. Persistent redness, cracked or weeping skin, lesions that spread quickly, or unusual bumps that do not resolve on their own may indicate a more serious case of pediatric skin conditions. If the skin problem interferes with sleep, causes discomfort, or continues for more than a week, it’s time to seek guidance from a skin specialist.
Our team at DCSI treats children of all ages in a comfortable, patient-first environment. Whether it’s a chronic condition like eczema or an unexpected outbreak of warts or rashes, we create treatment plans that make sense for a child’s stage of development and lifestyle.
Common Pediatric Skin Conditions We Treat
Eczema in Children
One of the most frequently diagnosed conditions among pediatric patients is eczema in children. Often linked to genetics, allergies, or environmental triggers, eczema presents as dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin that can crack, peel, or even bleed if left untreated. Flare-ups may worsen with exposure to allergens, heat, or certain soaps.
We offer eczema treatment plans that emphasize both symptom relief and flare prevention. Our approach often includes prescription-strength topicals, barrier-repair moisturizers, and patient education for long-term care at home.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that produces small, firm bumps on the skin, often with a central indentation. It spreads easily among children, especially in daycare and school settings, through shared towels, toys, or direct contact. While some cases resolve on their own, others persist or become irritated.
At DCSI, we provide safe, effective removal methods for molluscum lesions while also guiding parents on how to minimize transmission at home. Our priority is to reduce the spread, ease irritation, and preserve skin integrity through evidence-based care.1
Skin Rash in Toddlers
Toddlers are especially prone to rashes due to developing immune systems and sensitive skin. A skin rash in toddlers can stem from food allergies, viral infections, heat, or irritation from clothing or diapers. Though many rashes are temporary, those that worsen, blister, or are accompanied by fever should be assessed.
We help families distinguish between benign and potentially harmful rashes, offering targeted treatments for everything from contact dermatitis to impetigo or viral exanthems.2
Teen Acne and Hormonal Changes
Adolescence brings about major changes in hormone levels, often triggering breakouts on the face, back, and chest. Our teen acne treatment services go beyond over-the-counter products. At DCSI’s acne treatment center, we develop age-appropriate regimens that may include retinoids, antibiotics, or in-office therapies like light-based treatment.
We work closely with teens and their parents to ensure treatment aligns with lifestyle, self-esteem concerns, and skincare habits, ultimately reducing inflammation and minimizing scarring.
A Comprehensive Approach to Pediatric Skin Care
Effective pediatric skin care involves more than treating symptoms. It requires consistent monitoring, preventive strategies, and education tailored to both children and their families. That’s why we also evaluate moles that appear unusual or change rapidly, especially in fair-skinned or high-risk children. If a mole raises concern, our mole removal team uses careful screening methods and, when necessary, in-office removal.
In rare cases where suspicious growths or sun-related changes are detected, we’re prepared to guide families through further skin cancer screening and treatment. While skin cancer is uncommon in children, early detection is always key.
Our role as a South Florida pediatric skin specialist allows us to adapt our care to the region’s climate and lifestyle. High humidity, frequent sun exposure, and environmental allergens are common local triggers that can complicate skin recovery. We account for these factors when creating personalized plans.
Why Choosing Local Pediatric Dermatology Matters
Living in South Florida means children are more frequently exposed to skin stressors like UV radiation, coastal moisture, and high pollen counts. These elements can worsen preexisting pediatric skin conditions or make treatment more complex if not managed correctly.
Choosing a local pediatric dermatologist ensures not only convenience but also expertise that’s grounded in regional skin health challenges. At DCSI, we maintain close relationships with families, primary care providers, and local pediatricians to coordinate ongoing care for both acute and chronic conditions.
We also serve as a long-term partner in your child’s skin health journey. Whether it’s preventing future breakouts or catching early warning signs of more serious issues, our team is here with guidance you can trust.
Get Expert Help for Your Child’s Skin
Contact Dr. Mounir M. Wassef and the DCSI team to take the first step toward healthier skin. Whether your child is dealing with a chronic issue like eczema or a sudden flare-up of acne, we’re here to offer personalized care backed by clinical expertise. Our team treats a wide range of pediatric skin conditions with compassion, precision, and a deep understanding of what children need to feel comfortable and confident in their skin.
Be sure to explore our dermatitis blog to stay informed on the latest skin care news, patient education tips, and treatment innovations happening right here in South Florida. Every child deserves clear, healthy skin, and we're proud to be a trusted partner in that journey.
Sources
- Hanna D, Hatami A, Powell J. Pediatric Molluscum Contagiosum: An Evidence-Based Review. J Cutan Med Surg. 2018;22(6):631-637. doi:10.1177/1203475418781692. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6089785/. Accessed June 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. Skin Conditions in Children. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6951-skin-conditions-in-children. Accessed June 2025.