It is common for a child or baby to develop a skin rash at some point, but it's more common in the summer months when so much skin is exposed and vulnerable. Some rashes are mild and go away quickly, while others may need medical care. Your pediatrician can help identify the cause of the rash and recommend the right treatment for symptom relief. "Most childhood rashes are harmless, typically caused by viral infections, allergies, heat, or skin irritation," says Ishita Ghosh, MD, Pediatrics at ARC Goodnight Ranch. "Fortunately, many summertime rashes clear up quickly on their own."
Be sure to talk with your pediatrician or advanced practice clinician (APC) about any rash that you're unsure about — especially if you don't know what caused it, if it is making your child feel miserable or doesn't clear up quickly, or if it shows signs of infection or is accompanied by any shortness of breath.
Common rashes in children
Rashes can appear as bumps, dry patches, blisters, or areas of redness and itching. Some are caused by allergies or irritation, while others may be linked to viruses or an infection.
There are many types of childhood rashes, and some are more common than others.
- Heat rash often develops in hot weather when sweat gets trapped under the skin.
- Eczema is a long-term skin condition that can cause dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin. Children with eczema may have flare-ups that come and go over time.
- Psoriasis is also a long-term skin condition similar to eczema but differing in appearance and age of onset.
- Contact dermatitis happens when the skin reacts to something it touches, such as soap, lotion, plants, or chemicals.
Some rashes are linked to illnesses.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a virus and can lead to sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet.
- Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that causes red sores and crusting on the skin.
- Hives, which are raised, itchy welts often caused by an allergic reaction.
When to see a doctor for your child's rash
Many rashes improve with home care, but some need medical attention. Parents should contact a doctor if the rash:
- Causes severe itching or pain
- Comes with fever or other concerning symptoms
- Spreads quickly
- Looks infected or develops drainage
- Includes swelling or trouble breathing
- Won't go away after several days
- Keeps coming back
Dermatological care can help manage ongoing skin conditions
If a rash persists or worsens, an ARC pediatrician or APC may recommend additional testing or medication, and in some cases, may refer your child to an ARC Dermatology specialist. These specialists can help families create a skin care routine and recommend treatments to reduce flare-ups, irritation, and discomfort.
Early treatment can prevent complications
It is important not to ignore a rash that seems unusual or severe. "With early evaluation and an age-appropriate treatment plan, most childhood rashes are treatable, and children can get back to feeling better and enjoying their regular daily activities in no time," says Heather C. Lenz, PA-C, Dermatology Advanced Practice Clinician at ARC Hutto.
About ARC Pediatrics
At ARC Pediatrics, our pediatricians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) treat all issues affecting infants, children, and adolescents. This can include treating minor illnesses and ongoing health issues, talking to parents about school or behavioral problems, seeing kids for well-child checkups, and administering childhood vaccinations and immunizations.
For more specialized care, ARC specialists in allergy and asthma, audiology, dermatology, ENT (ear, nose & throat), orthopedics, podiatry, and sports and musculoskeletal medicine care for infants and children of various ages. Pediatric and specialty care teams work closely with each other and with our families to coordinate care. Together, we emphasize prevention, evidence-based treatment, and building long-term relationships.
New to ARC? Sign up for an ARC Pediatric Meet & Greet to help you choose the physician or APC who will partner with you and support the growth and development of your child.
Call today to schedule an appointment
Dr. Ghosh is accepting new patients, from newborns to 18 years of age. To make an appointment with Dr. Ghosh book online or in ARC MyChart.