Although Dermatology Associates of Atlanta offers various cosmetic skin services like laser hair removal, fat reduction, and facial rejuvenation (to name a few), we are still board certified dermatologists trained to treat a variety of skin conditions. A blog from Best Health magazine earlier this month reminded us of how difficult it is for children and teens to deal with acne, psoriasis, eczema, and more. The Article was intended to help parents teach their children how to maintain a positive body image and equip them with tools to deal with insensitive peers.

As we all know, acne is frustrating at any age. No one wants a big whitehead on his or her nose, but most of us remember a period when hormones seemed to cause pimples to crop up like crazy. It’s not only important to teach your children how to ignore teasing from their peers, but also to teach them how to take care of their skin so future breakouts are minimized. You could also take them to see a dermatologist for different alternatives such as skin treatment options like Isolaz™for acne if over-the-counter cleansers are not working and you want to avoid oral medications.  However, tried and true medications for acne include benzyl peroxides (OTC), topical antibiotics, topical retinoic acid, and topical salicylic acid (OTC).  While some of these medications are available over-the-counter a dermatologist can prescribe stronger versions if needed. Oral medications are usually considered in more severe cases, and in the most severe cases Accutane may be prescribed.

While not as common in younger people, psoriasis is another skin condition that can be physically, emotionally, and socially uncomfortable for a child or even teenager. We have an entire center devoted to psoriasis, the Psoriasis Treatment Center. While psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is rarely relieved by ointments and medications, our patients often find relief with our PHAROS EX-308 Eximer Laser treatments. We also offer prescription compounds and other therapies like psoralen soaks for the palms and soles to relieve discomfort and itching.  Light treatments are also common for psoriasis patients.  Now for some patients biologics may be the only treatment that gives total body lasting control, but this is usually reserved for the older patients where all other forms of treatments have been tried.

Although it’s one of the most common skin conditions, itchy eczema can also make kids and teens want to hide their skin. Our dermatologists can prescribe compounds to help relieve eczema symptoms in hopes that children and teens with eczema will feel as comfortable as possible in their own skin. Light therapy is commonly used to tame the more difficult eczema cases.  At times, dermatitis may be aggravated by certain laundry detergents and fabric softeners. Avoiding free washing with drying soaps and fabric softeners designed for the dryer seem to be most helpful in the long-term control of this unyielding dermatitis. DAA’s Laser Institute of Georgia can also provide removal of skin conditions or imperfections with laser birthmark removal (hemangiomas), laser wart removal, and mole removal.

Dermatology Associates of Atlanta believes it’s important to educate young patients on proper skin care, skin condition treatment, and positive body image. It’s very important for parents to support their children in dealing with their skin conditions.  Talking about problems like skin conditions helps children understand that there are no underlying causes, although, genetics may have something to do with conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Parents play a role in helping their child deal with these long-term conditions.  We also think beginning regular dermatology visits is important for the continued health of young patients through adulthood. To learn more about our general dermatology services or to schedule a consultation, visit our website. Be sure to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter as well.