Common Skin Problem Solutions

1. Eczema
Although it goes by many names (eczema, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis) eczema is a very common skin condition, especially for us in Utah in the dry, less humid, mountain desert. It has been estimated that up to 20% of kids will get this. 60% of those who get it will manifest some signs by one year of age and up to 80% before the age of two.

2. Molluscum Contagiosum
Summer is the time for swimming and pool parties. But that too can bring skin problems. Molluscum contagiosum is a pox virus, a distant cousin of chicken pox, this is also a very contagious virus. It looks like little warts, or flesh colored dome shaped bumps, on the skin that start with just a few and then they multiply and multiply. It is not uncommon for multiple children in the same family to have similar lesions.

3. Keratosis pilaris
This is a genetic disease that results in fine bumps most specifically on the outer arms, thighs, and cheeks. The bumps can be flesh colored or white and may have a sand paper like feel when you rub them. Each bump represents a plug of dead skin cells. Occasionally keratosis pilaris will itch. It is seen more often in low humidity climates, like Utah, and in low humidity seasons, like winter.

4. Pityriasis Alba
PItyriasis is often seen in children and young adults especially those with darker skin tones. This appears as whiter spots on tan or dark skin. Typically this is on the cheeks but can be on the upper arms and trunk. This condition often develops during the winter when it is less humid but becomes more visible in the summer when the contrast between the lighter skin and the darker skin becomes more visible.

There they are four common conditions that I see in my office. Hopefully this gives you some idea of when to worry and when to relax and enjoy the summer. Remember to put on the sunscreen and keep those kids protected.