Pediatric Dermatology

Pediatric dermatology focuses on caring for pediatric and young adult patients for standard skin conditions such as hives, rashes, and acne, that can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Our board-certified pediatric dermatologist Emily S. West MD. provides expert care to our younger patients so they can live their life to the fullest.

At New England Dermatology & Laser Center, we offer effective treatment options for children from Springfield, Longmeadow, Northampton, Westfield, and surrounding MA communities.

What Is Pediatric Dermatology?

Pediatric dermatology focuses on caring for patients under 21 for standard, rare, and chronic skin conditions. While pediatric and adult dermatology can overlap at times, our goal is to find effective and noninvasive treatment options, when possible, for our younger patients.

Pediatric Dermatology Services

We treat a wide range of skin conditions that impact infants, children, and adolescents. Our team of dermatologists offer customized treatment options for children and young adults.

Acne

Some acne treatments we offer for young adults and teens include topical agents, oral medications, and laser treatments.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Our team will identify the cause of allergic contact dermatitis and create a customized treatment plan.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata (bald patches) is typically treated with steroid injections or topical creams.

Diaper Rash

If at-home treatments are unsuccessful, our dermatologists can create a customized treatment plan for diaper rash.

Eczema

Although there is no cure for eczema, our team can create a customized treatment plan to reduce discomfort and irritation.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

We offer several effective treatment options to manage this chronic skin condition, which causes lesions and lumps.

Hemangiomas and Birthmarks

If a hemangioma is causing problems for your child, it can be treated with oral or injectable steroids, laser surgery, beta-blockers, or surgical removal.

Hives

Our team will identify triggers for hives and offer treatment options.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris, characterized by dry patches and small bumps, can make your child feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. Several effective topical treatments can help.

Mastocytosis

This is a skin condition where you have too many mast cells in some parts of the body. Although usually harmless in children, your child should see a dermatologist if they have symptoms such as a rash, skin bumps, or itching.

Moles

Consistently monitoring moles can help with the early detection of skin cancer.

Molluscum Contagiosum

We offer effective treatment options for this viral skin rash.

Psoriasis

We offer a variety of psoriasis treatments to improve dry, scaly patches on your child’s skin.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

A cream or shampoo containing corticosteroids can improve this skin condition, also called cradle cap in babies.

Warts

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be embarrassing or uncomfortable for children.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo causes loss of skin color in patches. Some effective treatments to improve vitiligo include corticosteroids, photochemotherapy, and phototherapy.

When Should Your Child Start Seeing a Dermatologist?

There is no rule for when your child can see a dermatologist; it depends on your child’s skin health. Your pediatrician can also help you determine when your child should see a dermatologist.