Paediatric Dermatologists in London
A paediatric dermatologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats skin conditions in infants, children, and adolescents including eczema, birthmarks, acne, warts, molluscum contagiosum, and genetic skin disorders. London has 12 GMC-registered paediatric dermatologists with fellowship training and consultant appointments at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Evelina Children's Hospital, and private clinics providing comprehensive paediatric dermatology care from birth through age 18.
Paediatric dermatologists complete full dermatology training including MBChB, MRCP(UK), and CCT in Dermatology followed by 1-2 years additional fellowship training in paediatric dermatology. These specialists understand child-specific skin conditions, age-appropriate treatments, family support needs, and developmental considerations affecting diagnosis and management.
What Conditions Do Paediatric Dermatologists Treat?
Paediatric dermatologists manage skin conditions affecting children from newborns through teenagers including inflammatory disorders, birthmarks, infections, genetic conditions, and teenage acne. These specialists provide age-appropriate treatments, family education, and long-term management for chronic skin conditions.
Infantile & Childhood Eczema
Childhood eczema affects 20% of children causing dry, itchy, inflamed skin on face, scalp, flexures, and widespread areas. Paediatric dermatologists prescribe age-appropriate emollients, mild-potent topical corticosteroids for appropriate body sites, topical calcineurin inhibitors for face and sensitive areas, and wet wrap therapy for severe flares.
Treatment emphasises barrier repair, trigger avoidance, and family education. Severe cases require systemic therapy including phototherapy, methotrexate, ciclosporin, or dupilumab for adolescents. Most children improve with age achieving clearance by teenage years.
Find eczema treatment specialists for comprehensive management.
Birthmarks & Vascular Lesions
Infantile Haemangiomas (Strawberry Marks)
Infantile haemangiomas appear in first weeks of life, grow rapidly for 6-12 months, then involute over years. Paediatric dermatologists assess haemangiomas for complications including ulceration, visual obstruction, airway involvement, or significant cosmetic impact.
Treatment includes:
Observation for uncomplicated lesions (spontaneous involution)
Oral propranolol for problematic haemangiomas
Timolol gel for superficial lesions
Laser therapy for residual telangiectasia
Surgical removal after involution if needed
Port Wine Stains
Port wine stains are permanent vascular malformations requiring pulsed dye laser treatment. Early treatment in infancy achieves best lightening results requiring 6-12 laser sessions over years.
Café-au-lait Patches
Multiple café-au-lait patches require assessment for neurofibromatosis. Paediatric dermatologists coordinate genetic testing and multidisciplinary care.
Teenage Acne
Acne affects 85% of teenagers requiring early treatment to prevent scarring and psychological impact. Paediatric dermatologists prescribe topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin for severe cases.
Treatment considerations for teenagers:
Early intervention prevents scarring
Psychological support addresses self-esteem impact
Isotretinoin requires pregnancy prevention counselling for girls
Combined oral contraceptives benefit girls with hormonal acne
Browse acne treatment options for specialist care.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum causes pearly dome-shaped papules spreading through contact. Most cases resolve spontaneously within 12-18 months. Treatment includes cryotherapy, topical therapy, or observation depending on extent and child tolerance.
Warts (Verrucae)
Common warts and plantar warts affect 10-20% of children resolving spontaneously over months to years. Treatment includes:
Topical salicylic acid (home treatment)
Cryotherapy for persistent warts
Observation for painless warts (spontaneous resolution)
Aggressive treatment avoided in young children due to pain and scarring risk.
Genetic Skin Conditions
Ichthyosis
Genetic disorders causing dry, scaly skin requiring lifelong emollient therapy and specialist monitoring.
Epidermolysis Bullosa
Genetic blistering disorders requiring specialist multidisciplinary care including wound management, nutrition support, and complication prevention.
Ectodermal Dysplasias
Genetic conditions affecting skin, hair, nails, and teeth requiring coordinated specialist care.
Nappy Rash & Skin Infections
Paediatric dermatologists diagnose and treat:
Irritant nappy dermatitis
Candida nappy rash
Bacterial infections (impetigo, folliculitis)
Eczema herpeticum (emergency treatment required)
Viral infections (warts, molluscum, hand-foot-mouth disease)
Psoriasis in Children
Childhood psoriasis presents as guttate psoriasis following streptococcal infection or plaque psoriasis similar to adults. Treatment includes topical therapies, phototherapy for older children, and systemic therapy for severe cases.
Alopecia in Children
Alopecia Areata
Autoimmune hair loss causing circular bald patches. Treatment includes:
Topical corticosteroids
Intralesional steroid injections for older children
Topical immunotherapy for extensive disease
Psychological support for child and family
Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)
Fungal infection requiring oral antifungal therapy (griseofulvin or terbinafine) for 6-12 weeks with fungal culture confirmation.
Top Paediatric Dermatologists in London
Dr. Shaaira Nasir - Multiple London Locations
Consultant dermatologist with paediatric dermatology fellowship specialising in childhood eczema, psoriasis, and inflammatory skin conditions. Provides comprehensive care for children and families.
Key Services: Childhood eczema, paediatric psoriasis, biologics for severe cases, family support
Consultation: £260
Insurance: Bupa, Axa, Aviva accepted
Profile: View Dr. Shaaira Nasir
Dr. Emma Wedgeworth - Harley Street & South London
Paediatric and general dermatologist managing eczema, food allergy-related skin conditions, and childhood inflammatory disorders across all age groups.
Key Services: Childhood eczema, food allergies affecting skin, acne, inflammatory conditions
Consultation: £270
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View Dr. Emma Wedgeworth
Dr. Sharon Wong - Harley Street & East London
Specialist paediatric dermatologist with Great Ormond Street Hospital appointments treating birthmarks, childhood eczema, and complex paediatric conditions. Expertise in laser therapy for vascular lesions.
Key Services: Birthmark treatment, childhood eczema, laser therapy, complex paediatric dermatology
Consultation: £310
Insurance: Bupa, Axa accepted
Profile: View Dr. Sharon Wong
Portland Hospital Paediatric Dermatology
Specialist paediatric dermatology service at Portland Hospital providing comprehensive care for children with all skin conditions.
Key Services: Complete paediatric dermatology, inpatient care available
Location: Great Portland Street
Great Ormond Street Hospital - Private Patients
Leading children's hospital offering specialist paediatric dermatology for complex and rare skin conditions requiring multidisciplinary care.
Key Services: Complex paediatric dermatology, genetic conditions, severe eczema, birthmarks
Location: Bloomsbury
Evelina London Children's Hospital
Specialist children's hospital providing comprehensive paediatric dermatology services including outpatient clinics and inpatient care.
Key Services: Paediatric dermatology, complex conditions, multidisciplinary care
Location: Waterloo
Additional Paediatric Services
General Dermatologists Treating Children:
Many general dermatologists treat common childhood skin conditions including:
Dr. Justine Kluk - Teenage acne
Dr. Anjali Mahto - Teenage acne and pigmentation
Dr. Adam Friedmann - All age groups
Treatment Approaches for Children
Age-Appropriate Therapies
Paediatric dermatologists tailor treatments to child age and development:
Infants (0-12 months):
Gentle emollients multiple times daily
Mild topical corticosteroids for short courses
Barrier protection for nappy area
Parent education and support
Toddlers (1-5 years):
Continuation of emollient therapy
Moderate potency topical steroids for body (avoiding face)
Antihistamines for itch
Wet wrap therapy for severe eczema
Gentle procedural treatments
School Age (6-12 years):
Topical therapies with child participation
Phototherapy for appropriate conditions
Limited procedural treatments (cryotherapy, laser)
School liaison for chronic conditions
Teenagers (13-18 years):
Adult-equivalent treatments including isotretinoin
Biologic therapy for severe eczema/psoriasis
Cosmetic concern consideration
Transition planning to adult services
Family-Centred Care
Paediatric dermatology emphasises:
Parent/caregiver education on condition and treatments
Demonstration of treatment application
Trigger identification and avoidance
School communication for chronic conditions
Sibling support where appropriate
Psychological impact assessment
Quality of life monitoring
Minimising Treatment Burden
Strategies include:
Once-daily medications where possible
Combination products reducing application number
Cosmetically acceptable formulations
School-friendly treatment schedules
Holiday treatment adjustments
When to See a Paediatric Dermatologist
Indications for Specialist Referral
Eczema:
Severe eczema affecting sleep or daily activities
Eczema not controlled with GP-prescribed treatments
Recurrent skin infections
Food allergy concerns
Poor growth or development
Family requiring specialist support
Birthmarks:
Rapidly growing haemangiomas
Haemangiomas near eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals
Ulcerated haemangiomas
Port wine stains (early laser treatment optimal)
Multiple café-au-lait patches (neurofibromatosis screening)
Acne:
Severe acne with nodules or cysts
Acne causing scarring
Acne not responding to GP treatment
Significant psychological impact
Acne in pre-pubertal children
Hair Loss:
Sudden hair loss (alopecia areata)
Patchy hair loss with scaling (tinea capitis)
Scarring hair loss
Hair loss with other symptoms
Unusual Rashes:
Blistering disorders
Persistent unexplained rashes
Photosensitive rashes
Suspected genetic conditions
Skin Infections:
Recurrent skin infections
Eczema herpeticum (emergency)
Widespread molluscum or warts
Fungal infections not responding to treatment
Urgent Referrals
Immediate paediatric dermatology assessment required for:
Eczema herpeticum (painful vesicles on eczema)
Severe drug reactions
Rapidly growing haemangiomas affecting function
Suspected severe genetic blistering disorders
Severe pustular psoriasis
Costs & Insurance
Consultation Fees
Service | Cost Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Initial Consultation | £260-£310 | 30-40 minutes |
Follow-up Consultation | £180-£250 | 20 minutes |
Procedure (laser, cryotherapy) | £200-£500 | Variable |
Common Treatment Costs
Treatment | Cost Range |
|---|---|
Prescription Emollients | £0-£50 (often NHS) |
Topical Corticosteroids | £10-£40 |
Wet Wrap Therapy Kit | £30-£60 |
Laser Session (birthmarks) | £300-£800 |
Cryotherapy | £100-£200 |
Patch Testing | £300-£500 |
Insurance Coverage
Private medical insurance typically covers:
COVERED:
Paediatric dermatology consultations
Medical treatment for skin conditions
Birthmark treatment (laser therapy)
Necessary biopsies and procedures
Eczema management
Acne treatment
LIMITED COVERAGE:
Genetic condition management (variable)
Long-term biologics (pre-authorisation required)
Cosmetic procedures
NOT COVERED:
Cosmetic mole removal
Elective scar revision
Purely cosmetic treatments
Most insurers including Bupa, Axa, and Aviva cover paediatric dermatology. Obtain pre-authorisation for procedures and expensive treatments.
View insurance guidance for detailed information.
What to Expect at Your Child's Appointment
Preparation
Before the appointment:
List current medications and treatments tried
Note trigger factors (foods, detergents, weather)
Photograph rash changes or flares
Prepare questions for specialist
Bring comfort items for young children
Consider bringing both parents if major decisions expected
What to bring:
Current medications and emollients
Insurance details
Red book (personal child health record)
Previous hospital letters if available
Favourite toy or comfort item
During the Consultation
Medical history (10 minutes):
Symptom history from birth
Previous treatments and responses
Family history of skin conditions
Allergies and reactions
General health and development
Impact on child and family
Examination (10-15 minutes):
Gentle examination of affected areas
Growth and development check if relevant
Photography for monitoring
Dermoscopy if appropriate
Parent/child privacy respected
Treatment planning (10-15 minutes):
Diagnosis explanation in clear language
Treatment options discussion
Demonstration of treatment application
Written information provided
Follow-up arrangements
Contact details for concerns
For Young Children
Paediatric dermatologists create child-friendly environments:
Gentle, reassuring approach
Age-appropriate explanations
Play therapy for anxious children
Parent involvement in examination
Sticker rewards
Minimal waiting times
For Teenagers
Adolescent consultations respect:
Privacy and confidentiality
Independent views and concerns
Transition to adult services planning
Psychological impact discussion
Treatment adherence challenges
Frequently Asked Questions
What age children do paediatric dermatologists treat?
Paediatric dermatologists treat children from birth through age 18. Some specialists focus on infants and young children while others treat all paediatric ages. Teenagers typically transition to adult dermatology services around age 16-18 depending on condition complexity and specialist preference. Dr. Shaaira Nasir, Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, and Dr. Sharon Wong treat children across all age groups.
How is childhood eczema different from adult eczema?
Childhood eczema typically affects face, scalp, and flexures (elbows, knees) while adult eczema commonly affects hands, feet, and flexures. Children's eczema often improves with age with 60-70% achieving clearance by teenage years. Treatment differs: children require gentler steroids on face, shorter steroid courses, more emphasis on emollients, and family support. Food allergies more commonly associate with childhood eczema requiring dietary assessment.
Does my child need to see a specialist for eczema?
Most mild-moderate eczema is managed by GPs. Specialist referral is needed for severe eczema affecting sleep or daily activities, eczema not controlled with GP treatments, recurrent skin infections, suspected food allergies, poor growth, or family requiring specialist support and education. Paediatric dermatologists provide comprehensive assessment, optimise treatment, and coordinate multidisciplinary care for complex cases.
Are laser treatments safe for children's birthmarks?
Pulsed dye laser treatment is safe for infant birthmarks including port wine stains and some haemangiomas. Treatment typically starts at 3-6 months for port wine stains achieving better results than later treatment. Multiple sessions (6-12) are required with local anaesthetic cream or sedation for extensive areas. Dr. Sharon Wong specialises in laser therapy for paediatric vascular lesions. Laser treatment is safer than allowing untreated port wine stains to thicken and darken over time.
Can teenagers take isotretinoin for acne?
Teenagers can take isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe acne, moderate acne causing scarring, or acne resistant to other treatments. Treatment requires monthly monitoring including blood tests. Girls require pregnancy prevention counselling, negative pregnancy tests before starting, and reliable contraception during treatment plus one month after. Side effects include dry skin and lips, mood changes (monitored closely), and joint aches. Most teenagers tolerate isotretinoin well achieving excellent acne clearance.
How long does childhood eczema take to improve?
Childhood eczema improves over weeks to months with appropriate treatment. Mild eczema typically improves within 2-4 weeks of consistent emollient and gentle topical steroid use. Moderate-severe eczema requires 2-3 months for significant improvement with ongoing maintenance therapy. Most children experience gradual improvement through childhood with 60-70% achieving clearance by teenage years. Some children develop adult eczema requiring continued management.
Should warts and molluscum be treated in children?
Most childhood warts and molluscum resolve spontaneously without treatment. Warts resolve in 50% within 1 year and 90% within 2 years. Molluscum resolves in 12-18 months typically. Treatment is considered for: extensive warts causing discomfort, plantar warts interfering with walking, molluscum causing eczema or secondary infection, cosmetic concerns in older children, or parental preference. Treatment options include cryotherapy, topical therapies, or observation.
What if my child is scared of the dermatologist?
Paediatric dermatologists specialise in child-friendly care creating comfortable environments for anxious children. Strategies include gentle approach, age-appropriate explanations, parent involvement, play therapy, short appointments, sticker rewards, and child-paced examinations. Bring comfort items, prepare child beforehand explaining what to expect, and inform specialist of specific fears. Most children tolerate dermatology examinations well with supportive specialist approach.
Are paediatric dermatology treatments covered by insurance?
Private medical insurance including Bupa, Axa, and Aviva typically covers paediatric dermatology consultations and medical treatments for childhood skin conditions. Coverage includes eczema management, birthmark treatment with laser therapy, acne treatment, and necessary procedures. Expensive biologic therapies require pre-authorisation. Genetic condition management has variable coverage depending on policy. Cosmetic procedures are excluded. Contact insurers before booking to confirm coverage and excess fees.
When should my teenager transition to adult dermatology services?
Teenagers transition to adult dermatology around age 16-18 depending on condition complexity, maturity, and specialist preference. Planned transition for chronic conditions like severe eczema or psoriasis ensures continuity of care. Transition planning starts 1-2 years before transfer discussing adult services, treatment adherence, self-management skills, and emergency protocols. Many general dermatologists treat young adults maintaining continuity for established patients.
Next Steps
Browse related services:
Cosmetic dermatologists for teenage acne scarring
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