My daughter has developed white patches on her face. They are about half cm in diameter. I’m applying coconut oil which is known to heal fungal and other infections. How long should I wait before consulting a dermatologist?

— Rima Banerjee, Mumbai

Though an accurate diagnosis can be made only by a dermatologist after examining her, she’s most likely suffering pityriasis alba, a skin infection common in children. It manifests as asymptomatic white spots on the face/cheeks. Since there is no itching or any other symptom, you can wait two-four weeks for it to selfheal before consulting a dermatologist.

My five-year-old daughter’s hair is very thin and rough. I wash her hair once a week with shampoo. Should I shave her head? Will it improve the quality of her hair?

— Leena Prabhakar, Chennai

Apply coconut oil to her hair a few hours before washing, followed with a mild conditioner. Tonsuring is not contraindicated although it is recommended to supplement with multivitamins for the next one-three months. Also consult a dermatologist for scalp examination.

We live in a cold town where the weather is mostly dry. I am worried that my children’s skin will become dry and wrinkled because of the cold/dry climate. What steps should I take to keep their skin soft and supple?

— Priya D. Nair, Mussoorie

A coconut oil body massage, followed by a quick lukewarm water bath and good moisturizer, will keep the skin supple and elastic. Also include fruits and vegetables in your children’s daily diet, while ensuring sufficient water intake through the day.

My son is seven years old and very active. During play he often tends to get hurt, and has stubbed his little toe so often that it’s turned black. Should we do anything about it?

— Shilpa Vinayak, Bengaluru

The change in the colour of the toenails from pink to black-brown is due to trivial trauma, often caused by blood extravasation. It takes a few weeks or months to fade. It happens to many children in this age group and is self-healing. However ensure that his toenails are always trimmed to avoid any severe injury.

(Dr. Rashmi Ravindra is consultant, dermatology & cosmetology, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)