Pediatric Dermatology at Belaray Dermatology

Children’s skin is more sensitive, more reactive, and affected by a distinct set of conditions compared to adult skin. Belaray Dermatology provides pediatric dermatology care at both the Hicksville and Stony Brook Long Island offices, treating infants through adolescents with the same evidence-based, physician-supervised approach used for our adult patients. Teens and adolescents with breakouts can learn more in our acne treatment guide.

Conditions We Treat in Children

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) — the most common childhood skin disease; complete management from topical steroids to dupilumab (Dupixent) for eligible patients
• Warts (verruca) — viral warts treated with cryotherapy, cantharidin, salicylic acid, or combination approaches
• Molluscum contagiosum — benign viral bumps common in school-age children
• Acne — including early teenage acne and neonatal/infantile acne
• Birthmarks — hemangiomas, port wine stains, congenital nevi, café-au-lait spots
• Impetigo and skin infections — bacterial, viral, and fungal infections of childhood
• Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) — requires oral antifungal treatment
• Psoriasis in children — including guttate psoriasis triggered by strep infections
• Alopecia areata — patchy hair loss in children
• Contact dermatitis — rashes from detergents, jewelry, poison ivy, and other allergens

Eczema in Children: A Closer Look

Atopic dermatitis affects 10–20% of children in the United States — our dedicated guide to eczema in children covers it in depth. Management is stepwise:

• Moisturization — barrier repair is the foundation of all eczema care
• Topical corticosteroids — for flare control; potency matched to age and location
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) — steroid-sparing agents for sensitive areas
• Crisaborole (Eucrisa) — non-steroidal topical for mild-moderate eczema
• Dupilumab (Dupixent) — biologic approved for children ≥6 months with moderate-severe eczema refractory to other treatments

What to Bring to a Pediatric Derm Visit

• Insurance card and any referral required by your plan
• Photos of the rash or skin concern at different stages or times of day
• List of current medications and topicals being used
• Any family history of skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer)

From Belaray Parents

“They were amazing. My son didn’t have an appointment today July 2, 2024 and was in July 9th. The staff didn’t send him away. They fit him in and was able to make him feel better. I was so impressed how professional they were and how he was treated during his office visit.”

“Efficient and well-runned office. So glad I chose this office for my daughter's needs. Very pleased with the care, the ease of scheduling of appointments and treatment options.”

More patient reviews →

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can a child see a dermatologist?

Any age, including newborns and infants. Belaray treats neonatal acne, infantile hemangiomas, and other conditions that present from birth.

Is a referral needed for pediatric dermatology?

Most insurance plans allow direct access to dermatologists. Some HMO plans require a PCP referral. Belaray accepts most major insurance plans — call to verify before scheduling.

Can eczema be cured in children?

Many children improve significantly or outgrow eczema by school age. However, for children with the full atopic triad (eczema + allergies + asthma), it tends to be more persistent. Effective management prevents scarring and secondary infection and significantly improves quality of life.

What is the difference between eczema and psoriasis in children?

Eczema tends to affect skin folds (behind knees, inner elbows) and is associated with allergies. Psoriasis appears on extensor surfaces (outer elbows, knees) with thick, silver scale. Accurate diagnosis by a dermatologist is important as they require different management.