Found this weird skin on my son's ear this morning. Doc appt is a week away. What can I do?. Full article 👇 💬

 

. Observe and Document Carefully

Before trying any treatment:

• Take clear photos of the area, from multiple angles.

• Note the appearance: Is it red, flaky, raised, blistered, crusty, or discolored?

• Check for other symptoms: Pain, swelling, warmth, discharge, itching, fever, or behavior changes.

• Track progression: Has it changed overnight or since you first noticed it?

Keeping a log helps your pediatrician or dermatologist diagnose more accurately.

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2. Basic Home Care

While waiting for your doctor appointment, you can do gentle care:

• Keep it clean:

  • Wash your hands before touching the area.

  • Gently clean the ear with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap if needed.

  • Avoid rubbing or scrubbing; this can worsen irritation or spread infection.

• Avoid irritants:

  • Don’t use harsh soaps, alcohol-based solutions, hydrogen peroxide, or over-the-counter creams unless instructed.

  • Avoid scratching, picking, or peeling the skin.

• Moisturize if dry or flaky:

  • Apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free moisturizer or plain petroleum jelly to keep the skin from cracking.

  • Do not use medicated creams unless prescribed.

• Keep ears dry during bathing or swimming:

  • Water trapped in the ear can worsen irritation if the skin is broken.

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3. Over-the-Counter Options (Very Gentle Use)

• If your son has mild itching or dryness, a fragrance-free emollient (like Aquaphor or plain petroleum jelly) can help.

• Avoid antifungal, steroid, or antibiotic creams without a doctor’s approval—they can worsen some conditions if used incorrectly.

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4. Watch for Warning Signs

Call a doctor immediately or go to urgent care if you notice:

• Rapid spreading redness or swelling

• Pus, yellow crust, or foul smell

• Pain that worsens or prevents him from sleeping or eating

• Fever or lethargy

• Blistering, bleeding, or cracks that look deep

These could indicate infection or a more serious skin condition that needs prompt medical treatment.

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5. Possible Causes (Just for Awareness)

Several things can cause unusual skin on a child’s ear:

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Dry, itchy, flaky patches; common in children.

2. Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap-like): Greasy, yellowish scales, sometimes on ears.

3. Allergic Reaction / Contact Dermatitis: Reaction to earrings, soaps, detergents, or lotions.

4. Infection: Bacterial or fungal, often with redness, pain, or discharge.

5. Psoriasis: Rare in children but can cause thick, silvery scales.

Even with these possibilities, only a medical professional can diagnose it accurately, so your upcoming appointment is crucial.

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6. How to Prepare for Your Doctor Visit

• Bring photos and notes about progression and symptoms.

• Note any recent exposures: new soaps, shampoos, earrings, or swimming pools.

• Mention any other symptoms: scratching, pain, fever, or other rashes.

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7. Emergency Situations

If any of these occur, seek care immediately:

• Rapid swelling of the ear or face

• Red streaks leading from the ear

• Severe pain, pus, or bleeding

• Fever with irritability or lethargy

These could indicate cellulitis or another serious infection requiring urgent treatment.

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Summary

For now:

1. Keep the ear clean and dry.

2. Apply gentle, non-medicated moisturizer if the skin is dry.

3. Avoid scratching, picking, or harsh chemicals.

4. Observe for signs of infection or rapid changes.

5. Take photos and notes for your doctor.

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If you want, I can make a step-by-step home care routine for your son’s ear that is safe to follow until your appointment. It would include cleaning, moisturizing, and monitoring instructions in a very practical guide.

Do you want me to do that?