Children have unique dermatological needs, and a pediatric dermatologist is experienced in diagnosing and treating skin conditions in this age group. Their knowledge of pediatric-specific conditions and treatment techniques ensures your child receives appropriate and effective dermatology care.
Choosing the right skin doctor for your child’s acne treatment is important because the right fit can only benefit your child. Let’s discuss some of the methods you can use to help you arrive at the best choice for a pediatric dermatology provider.
#1 Pediatric Dermatology Training and Experience
You want a pediatric dermatology provider with specialized dermatology skills gained through years of education and training. A dermatology specialist trained in pediatric dermatology has experience providing healthcare for infants and children.
These pediatric dermatology specialists are trained by the best in their field in Children’s hospitals and have the unique skill of establishing rapport with young patients, which can be challenging to other medical providers.
#2 Skill in Treating Acne and Other Pediatric Skin Conditions
Choose a dermatology provider with experience treating a wide range of pediatric skin conditions, including acne. Some of the most common conditions that require specialized treatment include:
- Eczema
- Warts
- Hemangiomas
- Molluscum
For acne, the skin doctor may prescribe a combination of oral medication and topical medication. Additionally, your child may benefit from extractions and chemical peels to further improve the quality of the skin and prevent acne.
Check with the provider beforehand about their experience in treating acne. Inadequate treatment of acne can result in scarring, which can affect self-esteem.
#3 Availability and Accessibility
Take into account the dermatology specialist’s availability and accessibility. For example, acne treatment often requires multiple visits, so choose a provider who offers convenient appointment scheduling and is easily accessible for ongoing care. This ensures your child receives timely skin care for his or her acne.
#4 Reviews and Reputation
Your child deserves the best acne treatments. Seek recommendations from trusted sources, including your child’s pediatrician and friends. If you have the name of a pediatric dermatologist, check their online reviews and testimonials, which can provide insight into the provider’s reputation and how much they value patient satisfaction.
#5 Bedside Manner and Communication Skills
Pediatric dermatology specialists’ communication skills with children are an important deciding factor when choosing a provider. Acne can be a very sensitive topic and children respond best to doctors who make them feel comfortable and relaxed.
Consider the dermatology clinician’s bedside manner and communication skills. Answer this: Will your child want to keep seeing the doctor for his or her acne treatments?
#6 Treatment Approach and Options
Evaluate the treatment approach and options offered by the pediatric dermatology specialist. Your child may have very sensitive skin, which affects his or her acne treatment options. Some dermatology providers may recommend aggressive treatments, while others may try a gentler approach.
One of the most effective acne treatments is prescription medication. Accutane, also known by its generic name, isotretinoin, is usually prescribed for severe or cystic acne that has not responded well to other treatments and works by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin’s oil glands, which helps prevent clogged pores and the formation of acne.
Overall, you want a dermatology specialist that personalizes skin treatments according to your child’s skin and preferences. In addition, you also want a provider who offers evidence-based treatments and stays up-to-date with the latest research.
By choosing the right pediatric dermatologist, you can have confidence in your child’s physician to help maintain the health of your child’s skin and overall well-being.
Top Pediatric Dermatology Specialist in Phoenix, AZ
Healthy skin is important for your child’s happiness. Samantha Casselman, DNP, CPNP-PC at Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology is a pediatric nurse practitioner with almost a decade of experience in pediatric dermatology. Samantha Casselman has trained with the best dermatologists in Arizona and is highly committed to treating pediatric skin conditions.
Samantha Casselman is known for her positive approach and gentle manner, making her one of the most sought-after pediatric dermatology specialists in Phoenix. In addition to acne, our team has experience in treating other pediatric conditions, such as warts and eczema.
To schedule a consultation with Samantha Casselman, DNP, CPNP-PC, call our dermatology office today at (602) 837-3376 or use our online appointment request form. The friendly staff at Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology looks forward to welcoming you and your child to our clinic.
