Your toddler is steadily growing and changing, and her activities may expose you to different adventures every day. You might also find yourself questioning her health and appearance as she becomes more prone to viruses, rashes and other skin conditions. In order to effectively treat a condition such as discolored skin, it is important to be able to know the different causes and treatment options.
Irritation and Allergies
Your toddler’s skin may appear to be discolored if he is experiencing irritation or an allergic reaction. Scratchy materials, such as wool, can cause areas of his skin to become red. He may also have an allergic reaction after exposure to certain materials, foods, animals or other triggers. An allergic reaction can result in red bumps or rashes anywhere on his body.
Tinea Versicolor
Tinea versicolor, also referred to as pityriasis versicolor, is a fungal condition resulting in flat discolored patches on the chest, arms, neck and face. It occurs when the fungus that lives in your toddler’s skin pores flares up, which is especially common on oily skin or if the weather is warm and moist. These discolored patches may be itchy for your toddler and cause her discomfort.
Eczema
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes dry, itchy skin on cheeks, arms, legs and the scalp. Kids Health states that eczema affects one in 10 children. These slightly raised bumps and rashes can turn into thick, brown discolored areas on your toddler’s skin if he scratches them too much.
Dehydration
Discolored and splotchy areas on your toddler’s hands and feet can be the result of dehydration. Your toddler may become dehydrated if she is not getting enough fluid. Other symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, sunken eyes and vomiting. If you suspect your toddler is dehydrated, take her to the doctor immediately.
Treatment
Your toddler’s doctor can decide the appropriate way to treat his skin discoloration. The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic for an allergic reaction and recommend that you avoid the allergy trigger in the future. Tinea versicolor can be treated with an antifungal medicine, and eczema can be calmed with topical steroid creams or antihistamines. If your toddler is dehydrated, he may need an IV or an electrolyte solution to restore fluids to his body. If you are unsure what is causing your toddler’s discolored skin, be sure to take him to the doctor to find the cause of the problem.
