Children's skin is thinner and more reactive than adult skin, so rashes, infections and allergies appear quickly and worry parents. Most childhood skin problems are common and treatable, but medicines and doses have to be chosen for the child's age and weight, and strong creams meant for adults can do harm.
Paediatric dermatology is one of Dr. Daksha Patel's special interests. As an MD dermatologist she sees infants, toddlers, school-age children and teenagers at Skin Essence in Kalyani Nagar for eczema, nappy rash, heat rash, fungal and bacterial infections, warts and molluscum, scabies, birthmarks, hair and nail problems and early acne.
Consultations are unhurried and explanatory, because most of the treatment happens at home: how to bathe and moisturise, which triggers to avoid, when a steroid cream is needed and when it is not, and how to stop infections spreading at school. Pune's dry winters and humid monsoons each bring their own flare-ups, and the routine is adjusted for the season.