It might surprise you to learn that your child could benefit from seeing a dermatologist. But, there are a number of conditions that may improve with the help of this type of specialist. Here’s everything you need to know about medical dermatology for children, including how to find the best pediatric dermatologist in Tysons Corner!
What Is a Pediatric Dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a doctor that specializes in conditions and treatments relating to the hair, skin, and nails. Pediatrics is a branch of medicine that focuses on diseases, conditions, and treatments for patients under the age of 18.
When you combine the two, you get a pediatric dermatologist. A pediatric dermatologist is a doctor that specializes in hair, skin, and nail conditions for children 18 and younger.
What Conditions Can a Pediatric Dermatologist Treat?
There are many health concerns your child may face during their first 18 years of life that require a specialized doctor, such as a pediatric dermatologist. These include but are not limited to:
- Acne
- Athlete’s foot
- Birthmarks
- Chickenpox
- Cradle cap
- Dandruff
- Diaper rash
- Eczema
- Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
- Head lice
- Hives
- Impetigo
- Psoriasis
- Rashes
- Rosacea
- Skin cancer
And far more! The skin is your largest, most protective organ, so you and your child will want to keep it as healthy as possible and address concerns as they come. If you notice anything unusual on your child’s skin, don’t hesitate to find a pediatric dermatologist to help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
What Treatments Does a Pediatric Dermatologist Offer?
Pediatric dermatologists specialize in providing age-appropriate treatments for when your child has been diagnosed with skin, nail, and/or hair conditions. Treatments widely vary depending on your child’s symptoms and diagnosis.
For example, if your teenager is dealing with a bad case of acne, their pediatric dermatologist can prescribe or recommend a prescription or over-the-counter topical treatments, antibiotics, or isotretinoin for children 12 years or older.
Your provider may perform minor surgical procedures such as wart removal or phototherapy for vitiligo. Ultimately, there are many different treatments a pediatric dermatologist offers in order to address all of the skin conditions. These include oral medications, topical medications, and antibiotics. Keep reading to learn more!
What Are Some Expert Tips for Finding a Provider
If you believe your child would benefit from seeing a pediatric dermatologist, you might be wondering how you can find one in your area. It’s hard enough to find a dermatologist for adults, so what can you do to find a dermatologist to help your child?
1. Ask Friends and Family
Firstly, asking a friend or family member for a pediatric dermatologist recommendation is the first and easiest step to find a dermatologist for your own child. By asking someone you know and trust, you’ll receive an honest review of this dermatologist to help you determine whether they might be right for your child.
If possible, ask about the visit, cleanliness of the office, friendliness of the staff, the success rate of any treatment(s) undergone, and their overall experience.
2. Get a Referral
Additionally, if your child’s primary care provider (PCP) are unable to help, you should be able to get a referral to a dermatologist that can. This also allows you to work within your child’s insurance network, streamlining the process and taking at least some of the stress off of you.
Next time your child visits their PCP, ask for a recommendation from a great dermatologist. It might surprise you to learn how many specialists are near you that can help you and your child get the health of their hair, skin, and/or nails back on track.
3. Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, you’re the parent. Therefore, you know your child better than anyone else, even their doctors. So, if you don’t feel comfortable with a dermatologist or want a second opinion, don’t be afraid to keep searching and find a provider that both you and your child feel comfortable with.
Additionally, you don’t have to accept the first diagnosis or treatment offered to you. If it doesn’t sound or feel right, it’s okay to ask questions.
Unfortunately, it can be very stressful, not to mention scary, for both you and your child to face a health problem. So, rest assured that you’re taking the steps to improve your child’s health and find the right pediatric dermatologist for them, you’re already doing great!
4. Use Your Resources
There are many resources available for parents wanting to learn more about pediatric dermatology and find a dermatologist for their child, thanks to the Society for Pediatric Dermatology. If all else fails and you struggle to find the help your child needs, don’t hesitate to use the multiple resources available.
These include education for both parents and children to understand the child’s condition, streamlined ways to find a pediatric dermatologist near you, and so much more!
Meet With the #1 Pediatric Dermatologist in Tysons Corner Today!
Your search for the #1 pediatric dermatologist in Tysons Corner ends here at the office of Dr. Marjan Yousefi. A board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Yousefi specializes in both adult and pediatric dermatology. So, if you or a loved one need unbeatable expertise, fast answers, and personalized treatment, look no further!
Contact us at 703-255-5070 or book online to schedule your child’s appointment today! We can’t wait to provide the education, care, and solutions your child needs!
