When it comes to taking care of children's skin, it is not just about protecting them from the sun. There are many other critical issues to also keep in mind. Parents and caregivers need to be proactive before bigger problems occur.

Here are the most common ailments, concerns, and solutions I have found when it comes to kids and their skin.

• Who doesn't love "baby smell"? Resist the urge to purchase the baby care products that have fragrance, as babies smell yummy all by themselves! Often, these artificial fragrances and even naturally derived scents can lead to skin sensitivity along with rashes and itching. If your little one has sensitive skin, it is wise to look for products with no added fragrance.

• Children are more prone to particular viruses due to their immune system not yet being fully developed. Warts for example, are more prevalent in young children since a child's defenses are not sophisticated enough to fight off the virus which causes the warts. So having your child suffer from and receive treatment for warts is not such a bad thing. This will help prevent warts occurring later in life. The most common places to notice warts are on elbows, fingers and feet. The best approach is to catch these viral induced warts as soon as they appear, as they are much easier to treat when they are small and haven't had the chance to spread. See your dermatologist as soon as you notice anything that looks like a new growth.

• A common cause of food allergies in children is artificial food dye. Try to avoid food coloring added to foods and beverages. Even look out for food coloring in cough syrup and prescription children's medicines. Ask your doctor to provide you with medicines that are dye-free.

• Gymnastics, wrestling, martial arts are all putting your child at risk for skin problems. Why? The floor mats! Cushioned gym mats used for certain sports can be absolutely filthy. Think about it, sweaty feet walk on the mat and then your child rolls on it or finds themselves face down on it. Make sure you ask the facility if these mats are cleansed regularly, and bring your own sanitizer to sporting events and practices for your kids to use before and after they are on the mats. Parents should be asking questions about the cleanliness of gym mats and kids should shower right after activities.

• Does your family pet curl up in your child's bed at night? This is so cozy and adorable and one of the best reasons to have a pet in the family. However, beware of these potential pitfalls: 1. Be sure no ticks, fleas or other insects are on the pet that could wind up on your child. 2. Be aware that outdoor pets can bring poison ivy contaminants in with them from the grass on their paws, muzzle and tail which transfer to a child's skin when they contact each other. 3. If your child suffers from asthma or eczema, your furry pet may worsen symptoms due to allergic reaction triggering a flare up.

• Take acne seriously. Tweens and teens not only suffer the physical effects of acne but also the emotional toll it takes can be devastating. If you notice your acne-prone child is failing to make eye contact with others, it may be partially due to the insecurity the child feels having break outs on their face. There are many safe and very effective treatments for acne. Have your child try over the counter remedies such as acne washes but be quick to see a dermatologist if the acne persists. The acne is treatable but the emotional scars it causes may not be.

• Did you know your children get a great deal of UV during outdoor gym class and even a brief recess? Have them put on sunscreen before they leave for school in the morning and suggest they wear a hat outdoors. Also, talk to your school board and champion a cause to get the playground covered. The American Academy of Dermatology can help you pass this through. See their web site at www.aad.org for more information about shade for playgrounds.

Blogging off,
Dr. Zalka