Pediatric Dermatology

Warts are benign skin growths caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infects the top layer of skin, causing the cells to grow rapidly, leading to the formation of a raised, rough, and often painless bump on the skin. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, fingers, feet, and face.

There are several types of warts, each caused by different strains of HPV:

1. Common warts (verruca vulgaris): These typically appear as small, rough bumps with a grainy texture on the hands, fingers, or around the nails. They may have black dots (clotted blood vessels) in the center.
2. Plantar warts: These develop on the soles of the feet, often in areas subjected to pressure or friction. Plantar warts may appear flattened due to pressure from walking and can cause pain or discomfort when walking.
3. Flat warts (verruca plana): These are small, smooth, and flat-topped, often appearing in clusters on the face, neck, hands, or legs. They may be flesh-colored, pink, or light brown.
4. Filiform wart: These have a long, narrow, finger-like appearance and often develop around the mouth, nose, or eyes. They may also occur on the neck or under the chin.

Our Approach and Expertise

At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to treating warts. Whether you’re dealing with a single stubborn wart or a recurring condition, our board-certified dermatologists provide personalized care using the latest evidence-based treatments.

We offer a full range of advanced treatments—including cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, topical medications, and minor surgical removal—tailored to your skin type, health history, and lifestyle. We also educate patients on prevention and at-home care to help reduce recurrence.

With decades of combined experience, a focus on comfort and results, and access to state-of-the-art technology, we’re proud to be your trusted resource for safe, effective wart treatment in Phoenix and the surrounding communities.

From cosmetic enhancements to medical dermatology, The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery is your trusted skin health partner.

Schedule your appointment today.

Sunburn is a skin reaction that occurs when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to inflammation and the characteristic redness, pain, and tenderness associated with sunburn.

Symptoms of sunburn typically appear within a few hours of exposure to UV radiation and may worsen over the next 24-48 hours. Common symptoms of sunburn include:

1. Redness: The affected skin becomes red or pink in color, indicating inflammation.
2. Pain and tenderness: Sunburned skin may feel painful or tender to the touch.
3. Swelling: Inflammation may cause swelling in the affected area.
4. Warmth: Sunburned skin may feel warm or hot to the touch.
5. Blisters: In severe cases of sunburn, blisters may develop, indicating deeper damage to the skin.

Other symptoms of sunburn can include itching, peeling, and dehydration. In addition to the immediate discomfort, repeated sunburns can increase the risk of long-term skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Our Approach and Expertise

At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we understand that sunburns can range from mild discomfort to serious skin damage—especially under the intense Arizona sun. Whether you’re seeking relief from a recent sunburn or dealing with long-term effects of sun exposure, our experienced dermatology team is here to help.

Our approach begins with a thorough evaluation of the affected area to assess the severity of your sunburn and determine if deeper tissue or blistering damage has occurred. For acute sunburns, we offer personalized treatment plans to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing—using medical-grade topical therapies, soothing skin care regimens, and advanced wound care if needed.

We also focus on long-term skin health. Frequent or severe sunburns can increase your risk of premature aging and skin cancer. That’s why we provide ongoing skin assessments, education on sun protection strategies, and, if needed, surveillance for sun damage or precancerous changes.

With deep expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, our team is committed to helping you recover comfortably—and protect your skin for the future. Count on The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery for expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique skin.

Schedule your appointment today.

Skin rashes are a common symptom of various skin conditions and can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, bumps, blisters, or other changes in the skin’s appearance or texture. Rashes can be caused by a wide range of factors, including allergic reactions, infections, irritants, underlying medical conditions, or systemic diseases.

Some common types of skin rashes include:

1. Contact dermatitis: This rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to localized inflammation and redness. It can be caused by substances like soaps, detergents, cosmetics, metals, or plants.
2. Heat rash (prickly heat): This rash develops when sweat becomes trapped in the sweat ducts, leading to small red bumps or blisters, often in areas of friction or where clothing is tight.
3. Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and red patches of skin. It can occur anywhere on the body and tends to flare up periodically.
4. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by the rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. It can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
5. Fungal infections: Fungal infections such as ringworm or athlete’s foot can cause red, itchy, and sometimes circular rashes on the skin. These infections are caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments.
6. Viral infections: Certain viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus (which causes cold sores) or varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles), can cause skin rashes with characteristic patterns or distributions.

Our Approach and Expertise

Skin rashes can be uncomfortable, unpredictable, and sometimes alarming—but you’re not alone. At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of skin rashes, from common irritations to complex dermatologic conditions.

Our expert team begins with a detailed consultation and skin examination to identify the underlying cause of your rash—whether it’s allergic, infectious, inflammatory, or related to an underlying medical condition. We understand that rashes can affect both your physical comfort and your confidence, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and symptoms.

Treatment is always personalized, combining advanced diagnostic tools with evidence-based therapies. Depending on your needs, we may recommend prescription medications, patch testing, lifestyle adjustments, or targeted skincare routines to calm the skin and prevent recurrence.

With extensive experience in both pediatric and adult dermatology, our board-certified providers offer compassionate, results-driven care to restore your skin’s health—and your peace of mind. At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to delivering exceptional care for all your skin concerns.

Schedule your appointment today.

Severe or chronic diaper rash refers to persistent or intense irritation and inflammation of the skin in the diaper area. While occasional mild diaper rash is common in babies, severe or chronic cases can be more challenging to manage and may require medical attention.

Several factors can contribute to severe or chronic diaper rash, including:

1. Prolonged exposure to wetness: Leaving a wet or soiled diaper on for too long can irritate the skin, leading to diaper rash.
2. Friction: Rubbing and chafing from the diaper against the skin can exacerbate irritation, especially if the diaper is too tight.
3. Irritants: Contact with irritants such as soaps, lotions, fragrances, or certain diaper materials can trigger or worsen diaper rash.
4. Fungal or bacterial infections: Yeast infections (such as candidiasis) or bacterial infections can develop in the moist environment of the diaper area, leading to more severe diaper rash.
5. Sensitivities or allergies: Some babies may have sensitivities or allergies to certain diapering products, wipes, or foods, which can contribute to diaper rash.

Our Approach and Expertise

At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we understand how distressing severe or chronic diaper rash can be—for both your baby and your family. When standard over-the-counter treatments aren’t enough, our dermatology specialists are here to provide the expert support and relief your child needs.

This can be caused by prolonged moisture, friction, sensitivity to products, or underlying infections like yeast or bacteria. Chronic cases may also be linked to skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Our board-certified dermatologists perform a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause and tailor treatment specifically to your baby’s needs.

We offer a range of gentle yet effective therapies—from prescription barrier creams and antifungal treatments to customized skincare guidance—all designed with your child’s comfort and safety in mind. We also work closely with parents to provide education on prevention strategies and optimal diapering practices to reduce recurrence.

With deep expertise in pediatric dermatology and a warm, family-focused approach, our team is dedicated to helping your child heal and thrive—with healthy, happy skin. Your skin is in expert hands with the dedicated team at The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery.

Schedule your appointment today.

Inherited or genetic skin conditions are skin disorders that are caused by genetic mutations or abnormalities passed down from one or both parents. These conditions can affect various aspects of the skin’s structure, function, and appearance, and they often present with distinctive features that are characteristic of each condition. Some examples of inherited or genetic skin conditions include:

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often runs in families and is associated with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever.
2. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, red, scaly patches or plaques on the skin. It has a genetic component and tends to run in families.
3. Ichthyosis: Ichthyosis refers to a group of genetic disorders characterized by dry, scaly, or thickened skin. There are several types of ichthyosis, each with its own genetic cause and characteristic features.
4. Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB): EB is a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by fragile skin that is prone to blistering and tearing in response to minor trauma or friction. It is caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins that help anchor the layers of the skin together.
5. Albinism: Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Individuals with albinism have very light skin, hair, and eyes, and they are prone to sunburn and vision problems.
6. Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT): HHT is a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal blood vessel formation, leading to the development of telangiectasias (small, dilated blood vessels) on the skin and mucous membranes. These blood vessels are prone to bleeding and can cause various complications.
7. Pachyonychia Congenita: Pachyonychia congenita is a rare genetic disorder characterized by thickened nails (pachyonychia), painful blisters and calluses on the hands and feet, and other skin and nail abnormalities.

Our Approach and Expertise

Genetic and inherited skin conditions often require specialized care, and at The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you or your child has been diagnosed with a genetic skin disorder or you’re seeking answers to chronic skin issues, our experienced dermatology team provides expert, compassionate support.

Inherited skin conditions—such as eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, epidermolysis bullosa, and various pigmentary disorders—can range widely in presentation and severity. Our board-certified dermatologists are skilled in diagnosing even the most complex conditions and tailoring long-term care plans that improve both skin health and quality of life.

We combine advanced diagnostic tools with the latest medical therapies to manage symptoms, minimize flare-ups, and prevent complications. Our multidisciplinary approach may include coordination with geneticists, pediatricians, or other specialists when appropriate.

Most importantly, we treat each patient with empathy and respect, recognizing the emotional and physical challenges these conditions can bring. From infants to adults, our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support, education, and expert care to help you or your loved one live confidently with a genetic skin condition. Trust The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery for personalized, expert solutions for your skin.

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“Salmon patches” and “stork bites” are both terms used to describe common types of birthmarks found in newborns. These birthmarks are typically benign and often fade or disappear as the child grows older.

1. Salmon patches (nevus simplex): Salmon patches are flat, pink or red patches of discoloration that are present at birth or appear shortly thereafter. They are caused by dilated blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. Salmon patches can occur on various parts of the body but are most commonly found on the back of the neck (“angel kisses”) or between the eyebrows (“glabellar hemangioma”). They are typically not raised or palpable and usually fade within the first year of life, although some may persist into adulthood.
2. Stork bites (nevus flammeus): Stork bites are another type of birthmark characterized by flat, pink or red patches of discoloration. They are caused by an overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin. Stork bites are often found on the nape of the neck (“nuchal salmon patch”) or on the upper eyelids (“eyelid hemangioma”). They are so named because they were traditionally believed to be caused by the “stork” delivering the baby and leaving a mark. Like salmon patches, stork bites usually fade over time, although those on the nape of the neck may persist into adulthood.

Our Approach and Expertise

At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we understand how important it is for parents to feel confident about their child’s skin health. Salmon patches—commonly known as “stork bites” or “angel kisses”—are among the most common birthmarks in infants, and our team is here to help you understand and manage them with expert, compassionate care.

These soft pink or red patches are typically harmless and caused by dilated capillaries under the skin. They often appear on the back of the neck, forehead, eyelids, or upper lip. While most salmon patches fade naturally over time, some may persist or raise cosmetic concerns as a child grows.

Our board-certified dermatologists will carefully assess the area to confirm the diagnosis and provide clear guidance on what to expect. In rare cases where the patch remains noticeable into later childhood or adulthood, we offer treatment options such as laser therapy to gently reduce discoloration.

Whether you’re seeking peace of mind or considering treatment, our team provides thoughtful, individualized care to support your family every step of the way. The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery offers comprehensive support and advanced treatments for every skin type.

Schedule your appointment today.

“Cradle cap,” also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that affects infants. It is characterized by greasy, yellow or brown scales or crusts on the scalp. Cradle cap can also occur on other areas of the body, such as the face (especially around the eyebrows and behind the ears), neck, and diaper area.

The exact cause of cradle cap is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from overactive sebaceous glands in the skin, which produce an excess of sebum (skin oil). This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, can accumulate and form scales or crusts on the skin’s surface.

Cradle cap is typically harmless and does not cause discomfort or itching for most infants. It usually appears within the first few months of life and tends to resolve on its own by the age of six to twelve months, although it can sometimes persist longer.

Our Approach and Expertise

Cradle cap, or infant seborrheic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that can cause worry for parents—but rest assured, it’s typically harmless and highly manageable. At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we’re here to provide expert guidance and gentle, effective care for your child’s skin.

Cradle cap often appears within the first few months of life as yellowish, greasy scales or flakes on the scalp, eyebrows, or behind the ears. While it’s not contagious or painful, persistent or severe cases may require treatment to soothe the skin and prevent irritation.

Our board-certified dermatologists are experienced in evaluating cradle cap and distinguishing it from other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. For mild cases, we offer practical at-home care strategies using gentle washes and oils. For more stubborn cases, we may recommend safe, pediatric-approved medicated shampoos or topical treatments.

With a compassionate, family-centered approach, our team is committed to helping your baby feel comfortable and supporting parents with the knowledge and tools they need. Your child’s skin is in experienced hands—because every little one deserves healthy, happy skin from the start. Count on The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery for expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique skin.

Schedule your appointment today.

Baby eczema, also known as infantile eczema or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that typically appears in the first few months of life. It’s characterized by red, dry, itchy patches on the skin. These patches can occur anywhere on the body but are often found on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs.

The exact cause of baby eczema is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Babies with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop it. Environmental factors like dry skin, irritants, and allergens can also trigger or exacerbate flare-ups.

Our Approach and Expertise

At The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we understand that baby eczema—also known as infantile atopic dermatitis—can be a source of stress and concern for families. Seeing your baby uncomfortable with red, dry, or itchy skin can be upsetting, and we’re here to help you find both answers and relief.

Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition that often begins in infancy, typically appearing on the cheeks, scalp, arms, or legs. While the exact cause is not always clear, it often runs in families and is linked to a sensitive immune system and skin barrier. Triggers like dry weather, certain fabrics, or skincare products can lead to flare-ups, making management and prevention key.

Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating eczema in babies with a gentle, personalized approach. We carefully evaluate your child’s skin and overall health to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan—one that may include soothing emollients, prescription-strength creams, or adjustments in bathing and skincare routines. We also educate caregivers on how to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups at home.

With decades of experience in pediatric dermatology, we combine clinical expertise with compassionate care. Our goal is to ease discomfort, support healthy skin development, and give families peace of mind—because every baby deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin. Your skin is in expert hands with the dedicated team at The Center for Dermatology and Plastic Surgery.

Schedule your appointment today.