2018 - Page 3 of 12 - Zel Skin & Laser Specialists

When should your child see a dermatology provider?

There are many reasons a child may need to see a dermatologist ranging from rashes to bug bites to acne. One of the most important reasons for your son or daughter to be seen in clinic is to monitor moles that are worrisome.

Most moles seen on children’s skin are generally not too concerning. As your child grows, it is normal for the moles to grow along with them and even sometimes change in color. Some moles may disappear completely as your child continues to grow. In an otherwise healthy child, melanoma and other skins cancers are quite rare; however, there are some times when a mole should be checked by a trained dermatology provider.

If you see more than 50 moles on your child’s skin.

Large numbers of moles may indicate a higher risk for melanoma. When caught early, melanoma is very treatable and your child should be seen yearly for regular skin exams to monitor the moles.

If your child’s mole is bleeding or painful.

Address this immediately. If your child is experiencing any discomfort from a skin lesion, they should have it checked out.

If your child has two or more different colors in it or looks jagged around the edges.

These moles may indicate cancerous or precancerous change and should be evaluated in clinic.

If your child has a very large mole.

Most moles and freckles on the skin are pencil eraser sized or smaller. In some instances, children may develop or be born with large moles that may cover a significant portion of their skin. These moles should be monitored by your dermatology provider, as there are melanomas that can arise from these moles. Early detection is essential for good treatment outcome!

If your child’s mole is changing.

Perhaps you’ve noticed a small brown mole on your child’s leg that has been present since birth. If this mole looks the same and never changes, most likely it is nothing to worry about. If the mole all the sudden turns very dark brown or changes color, or all the sudden has a different shape or grows dramatically – it’s time to have it checked in the office.

Regular yearly monitoring for atypical moles is part of a healthy, whole-body approach to skincare no matter your age. To schedule a skin exam for you or your child, call (952) 929-8888 or visit our contact page.

woman with eczema reaction on leg - eczema awareness month

October is Eczema Awareness Month

Eczema, also called “atopic dermatitis”, is a common condition generally categorized as dry, red, itchy skin and affecting over three million people in the United States every year. For this month’s Eczema Awareness Month we are answering five common questions about Eczema.

Is my eczema contagious?

No! You cannot get eczema by coming into contact with someone who has the skin condition. There is a hereditary link with eczema so it is common for it to affect several family members. Eczema can also be caused by environmental exposures and things like pet dander and dust – so seeing roommates with eczema is not uncommon as well.

I read that only young children get eczema, is this true?

Although young children tend to have the most severe forms of eczema, the condition can affect you at any age. We treat patients of all ages for eczema in our offices.

I saw a cream that advertises a cure for eczema, is this real?

Unfortunately there is no cure for eczema; however, under the care of your dermatology provider there are many different treatment options that can be used to treat current symptoms and prevent eczema from flaring again. Ranging from topical lotions and creams, to injectable pills and light therapy – our providers are able to offer our patients afflicted with eczema a variety of treatment options.

What should I do if I think I have eczema?

If you suffer from itchy, dry or red skin that does not resolve on its own – make an appointment! Our medical providers will be able to identify your eczema and provide treatment options. It is important to correctly diagnose your skin condition because eczema also has a negative impact on overall health and quality of life. Patients who are prone to eczema sometimes also suffer from skin infections, difficulty sleeping, asthma and allergies.

If I just moisturize my skin, the eczema will go away right?

Wrong! Although emollient moisturizer is one part of a comprehensive eczema treatment plan, in most cases it is not enough to treat symptoms and prevent flares. Also – not all moisturizer is equal. You want employ the best strategies possible to clear your skin and keep it that way!

Don’t struggle with eczema any longer! Contact us today to schedule your appointment at any of our three Twin Cities dermatology clinics.

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2 Carlson Parkway N., Suite 100
Plymouth, MN 55447

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