The ABCs of skincare for kids.

Okay Mom and Dad, listen up

It's time to learn about kids' skincare. What's there to know, you ask? Well, while children certainly don't need to worry about wrinkles and crows' feet, things such as rashes, eczema and acne are concerns that can hit at any age. And while most kids could care less about their skin right now, learning to treat it right while they're still young will certainly pay off in the future.

Sensitive skin

Having baby-soft skin comes with a price. Many children are sensitive to fragrances, detergents and dyes that can lead to rashes and other skin problems. It's best to take a proactive approach: use perfume-free laundry detergent and soap, avoid using dryer sheets and buy cotton clothing, rather than wool or synthetic fibers which can cause irritation.

Poison ivy

So, your little one has found a patch of fuzzy, three-leafed plants. If you're lucky enough to learn of your child's contact with poison ivy (or oak or sumac) within five to ten minutes, then there's a chance that you can wash off the urushiol oil, which causes the reaction. (Don't use very hot water, however, as it may help spread the rash and aggravate itching.) Most cases of poison ivy, however, become evident when the skin starts itching and burning. After this, blisters form and they start to ooze. While there is no "cure" for the itching and discomfort caused by this allergy-producing plant, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms.

The leaves and juice from the stem of jewelweed (Impatiens biflora) have been used as a folk remedy for skin irritations, including poison ivy. A tincture can be made by boiling the leaves in water for 20 minutes, and then straining. Or try rinsing the affected area with apple cider vinegar or witch hazel to alleviate itching.