This post is sponsored by Epiphany Dermatology.
When it comes to skin health, fostering good habits early can make a lifelong difference. For moms, ensuring that both their skin and their child’s skin remain healthy is an opportunity for bonding and education.
Dr. Audrey Rutherford, a Board-Certified Dermatologist at Epiphany Dermatology in Denver (Cherry Creek), believes that taking a proactive approach to skin care
benefits all ages, from infancy through adulthood.
Early Skin Health Matters
Children’s skin is delicate and requires unique care. From managing diaper rash and eczema in infants to teaching teenagers how to combat acne, understanding the needs of young skin is essential. “Kids have different physiological needs compared to adults,” says Dr. Rutherford. “A simple, tailored approach can prevent many common issues, like dryness, irritation, and sun damage.”
Sun Protection
One key lesson Dr. Rutherford emphasizes is sun protection. A child’s skin is particularly
vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and sunburns during childhood significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Dr. Rutherford recommends a partnership approach: parents can model good behavior by applying sunscreen alongside their children, fostering healthy habits early. Other sun protective measures can also go a long way in preventing UV exposure, such as broad-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during the midday hours in which UV radiation is at its peak.
Access to Accurate Information
Dr. Rutherford also notes the importance of ensuring children and teens are getting accurate information about their skin health. “There is so much misinformation on social media that kids get exposed to by influencers or content creators trying to sell products,” Dr. Rutherford says. “The skin barrier and skin needs are different depending on your age, but social media does not distinguish this fact. There are some kids whose complex skincare routines are actually disrupting their skin barrier which can cause problems over time.”
It’s important to instill discernment in kids as they grow up to listen to trusted sources about their health. “As a physician, my first goal is to do no harm to my patients and provide evidence-based care,” says Dr. Rutherford. “Unfortunately the same cannot be said for much of the information spread online or through social media targeting teens and kids.”
Pregnancy Related Skin Challenges
For mothers, the journey of pregnancy and childbirth often brings dramatic changes to the skin. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger issues like melasma (dark patches on the face), acne, new or changing skin growths, or stretch marks. Tailoring mothers’ skincare routines during pregnancy is also important to avoid unnecessary exposures to chemicals or medications which could potentially impact fetal development. Dr. Rutherford underscores the importance of postpartum skin care, noting that “luckily many pregnancy-related conditions are temporary and treatable with the right regimen.”
“Mommy and Me Skin Health”: Partnering with an Expert Dermatologist
She works closely with moms to develop personalized solutions, from topical treatments to
cosmetic laser therapies, all tailored to meet the unique needs of postpartum skin. Importantly, she encourages women seeking pregnancy as well as breastfeeding mothers to consult with their dermatologist and OB/Gyn before using any skincare products to ensure safety for both mom and baby.
A Lifelong Partnership for Skin Health
Skin evolves with age, and having a dermatologist who understands your changing needs is
invaluable. “Many moms neglect their own skin while focusing on their children,” says Dr.
Rutherford. “But caring for yourself sets an important example for your kids and keeps you
looking and feeling your best. And skincare doesn’t have to be an exhaustive, time-consuming regimen! Even very simple routines which take only minutes in the day can maintain or improve your skin health.”
She highlights the benefits of regular skin checks to detect and prevent serious issues like skin cancer. For families, scheduling appointments for parents and kids back-to-back or
simultaneously in the same room can simplify busy lives while addressing everyone’s unique skin care needs in the office together.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Dermatologist?
Partnering with a Board-Certified Dermatologist like Dr. Rutherford ensures you’re getting expert care grounded in the latest research and scientific evidence. From choosing the right baby-safe products to accessing cutting-edge treatments, a dermatologist provides tailored advice for every stage of life.
“Your skin is your body’s largest organ,” Dr. Rutherford reminds us. “It deserves the same
attention as your overall health.” With professional guidance, parents and their children can
develop healthy habits that protect their skin today and for years to come.
“Mommy and Me” skin health is more than just routines; it’s about fostering a lifelong
commitment to wellness and teaching kids values through parental healthy habits. By working with experts like Dr. Audrey Rutherford, families can enjoy healthy, radiant skin while strengthening their bond through shared self-care practices.
Take the first step in prioritizing your family’s skin health by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Audrey Rutherford at Epiphany Dermatology in Denver (Cherry Creek). After all, healthy skin is a family affair!
Call (303) 388-5629 today or schedule online at Epiphanydermatology.com.
