What Is Paediatric Dermatology?
Paediatric dermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders in babies, children, and teenagers. Children's skin behaves differently from adult skin and often requires modified approaches to examination, diagnosis, and treatment.
Our dermatologists are experienced in managing both common and complex paediatric skin conditions while keeping your child’s comfort and safety at the centre of care.
Common Paediatric Skin Conditions We Treat
At Shine Dermatology, we manage a wide range of skin concerns in children, including:
1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
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Very common in young children
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Symptoms include dry, itchy, inflamed skin, often behind the knees, inside elbows, or on the cheeks
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Early diagnosis and a good skincare routine are key to preventing flares
2. Skin Infections
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Viral: Warts, molluscum contagiosum, hand-foot-and-mouth disease
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Bacterial: Impetigo, folliculitis
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Fungal: Ringworm, tinea capitis
3. Diaper Rash
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Caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and irritants
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May require medicated creams if persistent or infected
4. Birthmarks and Pigmentation Issues
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Includes haemangiomas, café-au-lait spots, Mongolian spots, and naevus of Ota
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Early evaluation helps determine if treatment or monitoring is required
5. Allergic Skin Reactions
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Hives (urticaria), contact dermatitis, and food-related skin allergies
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Diagnosis may involve allergy testing and careful review of history
6. Hair and Scalp Disorders
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Cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), alopecia areata, and scalp infections
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Some conditions may be linked to nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune causes
7. Adolescent Acne
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Varies from mild comedonal acne to more severe inflammatory acne
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Early and appropriate treatment can reduce the risk of scarring
Diagnosis and Child-Centred Care
We understand that visiting a clinic can be intimidating for children. At Shine Dermatology, we prioritise a warm, welcoming environment with a gentle approach to examinations and procedures. Where necessary, we tailor investigations (such as skin scrapings, cultures, or allergy testing) based on your child’s condition and tolerance.
Our paediatric consultations also consider family history, environmental triggers, and any school or lifestyle-related factors that may contribute to your child’s skin condition.
Treatment Options
Treatment for paediatric skin conditions may include:
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Topical creams (steroids, antifungals, antibiotics, or barrier creams)
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Oral medications (antihistamines, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories where appropriate)
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Laser therapy (for certain birthmarks or vascular lesions, if clinically indicated)
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Allergy testing (patch testing or blood tests for IgE levels in children with recurrent allergic rashes)
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Parental education on appropriate skincare routines, product selection, and lifestyle adjustments
All treatment plans are individualised, age-appropriate, and discussed thoroughly with parents or caregivers to ensure clarity and confidence in the care journey.
Skin Conditions in Pregnancy and Newborns
In addition to children, we also manage dermatological concerns that affect expectant mothers and newborns, including:
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Pregnancy-related dermatoses such as PUPPP (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy)
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Neonatal rashes and skin infections
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Genetic or congenital skin conditions diagnosed in infancy
Our integrated approach allows us to support both maternal and newborn dermatological health where needed.
When to See a Paediatric Dermatologist
If your child has:
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A persistent or worsening rash
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Frequent skin infections
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Itching that affects sleep or daily activities
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Concerns about birthmarks or pigmentation
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Changes in moles or skin lesions
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Hair loss or unusual scalp conditions
It is best to consult a dermatologist with paediatric experience for a thorough assessment and appropriate treatment plan.
At Shine Dermatology, we are proud to offer comprehensive paediatric dermatology services in Singapore. Our UK-trained, locally experienced dermatologists are committed to providing evidence-based care tailored for your child’s needs.
