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How to treat sun-induced dermatitis in children?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have a 3-year-old daughter, and for the past four days, I have noticed small patches on her face that appear to be some form of skin allergy. The patches are located on her left upper lip and cheeks. I have attached a picture for your reference.

We live abroad, and I would appreciate it if you could recommend an appropriate ointment. I have tried using an ointment containing aloe vera, glycerin, vegetable oils, and titanium dioxide and virgin coconut oil, but they have not been effective.

Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

I have seen the pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity). This seems to be a type of Sun-induced dermatitis commonly present in children.

Here is what you can do:

  1. Apply sunscreen like Photostable regularly twice daily over the face for example., at 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
  2. Apply any moisturizer repeatedly.
  3. You can apply Mometasone or Hydrocortisone cream over the lesion once-daily for ten days only and then stop this cream.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for your quick response.

She rarely spends time in the sun and mostly stays indoors, only occasionally going to the balcony.

Could you please share a picture of the ointment you recommend so I can look for a similar alternative here?

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Sun-induced photodermatitis, or PMLE (polymorphic light eruption), can occur in children even with minimal sunlight exposure or indoor lighting.

You can apply Miconazole (antifungal) and Clobetasone (steroid) cream as an alternative to the previously mentioned cream, along with sunscreen and a moisturizer.

You can find several options of the cream by searching online.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byDr. Vinodhini J.

Published At March 20, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 31, 2025

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