Welcome to Don’t Be Rash®

Looking for trusted pediatric dermatology advice? This podcast delivers evidence-based, expert guidance for parents, caregivers, and health care professionals on a wide range of children's skin conditions. From common concerns such as infant rashes, eczema, and sensitive skin to more complex disorders including atopic dermatitis (severe eczema) and Sturge-Weber syndrome, each episode provides practical tips, treatment insights, and the latest dermatology recommendations.


Hosted by Dr. Andrew Krakowski, MD, Network Chair of Dermatology, the podcast combines clinical expertise, real-world patient stories, and actionable skin care advice to help listeners better understand, manage, and improve children's skin health.

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Child's torso with molluscum bumps

EPISODE 1

Warts & Molluscum: Skin Viruses Gone Viral

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Warts & Molluscum: Skin Viruses Gone Viral

EPISODE 1

As a parent, it can be concerning to discover bumps, spots, or growths on your child’s skin and wonder what they mean. In this episode, Dr. K is joined by pediatrician Dr. Alycia Walty to discuss molluscum contagiosum and warts, two common viral skin conditions that affect children. Together, they explain what causes these infections, how they spread, when treatment may be needed, and what parents can do to help prevent them. Tune in for trusted guidance and practical tips to help you feel confident about keeping your child healthy and knowing when to seek care.

Infants arm with port wine birthmark

EPISODE 2

Red Alert! Hemangiomas and Port Wine Birthmarks

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Red Alert! Hemangiomas and Port Wine Birthmarks

EPISODE 2

Red birthmarks are common in babies, but understanding what they are and whether they need treatment can be confusing. In this episode, Dr. K is joined by pediatric dermatologist Dr. Caroline Piggott to discuss two of the most common vascular birthmarks in infants: infantile hemangiomas and port wine birthmarks. Learn what causes these conditions, how they differ, when treatment may be recommended, and what parents should watch for as their child grows. Tune in for expert insights that can help you better understand these often-confused birthmarks and feel more confident about your child's care.

Individual's legs with red bumps

EPISODE 3

Kids Bee-Ware! All the Buzz About Bug Bites and Stings

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Kids Bee-Ware! All the Buzz About Bug Bites and Stings

EPISODE 3

Bug bites, stings, sun exposure, and other outdoor skin irritations are a common part of childhood, especially during warmer months. In this episode, Dr. K is joined by pediatrician Dr. Alycia Walty to discuss how to keep kids safe and comfortable while enjoying time outdoors. Learn how to choose and use insect repellents and sunscreens effectively, separate common myths from facts about bug bites, and discover practical ways to relieve itching, irritation, and other skin reactions. Tune in for expert advice to help your family stay protected and make the most of outdoor adventures.

Hands on blue fabric

Episode 4

The Itch that Rashes: The Diagnostic Approach to Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

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The Itch that Rashes: The Diagnostic Approach to Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

EPISODE 4

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, can be frustrating for both children and caregivers, causing persistent itching, sleep disruptions, and flare-ups that can be difficult to control. In this episode, Dr. K reunites with pediatrician Dr. Alycia Walty to help families better understand this common skin condition and the steps they can take to manage it. From daily skincare routines and trigger avoidance to treatment options and flare-up prevention, they break down the science behind eczema into practical, easy-to-follow advice. Tune in for expert guidance that can help your child find relief and improve their comfort and quality of life.

Hands on blue fabric

Episode 5

The Itch that Rashes: An Informed Approach to Managing Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

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The Itch that Rashes: The Informed Approach to Managing Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

EPISODE 5

Managing mild eczema can feel overwhelming when you're faced with endless skincare products, conflicting advice online, and promises of quick fixes. In this episode, Dr. K and pediatrician Dr. Alycia Walty cut through the noise to share what the science actually tells us about caring for eczema-prone skin. From choosing a moisturizer that works to creating an effective bathing routine, they cover the simple, evidence-based steps that can make a meaningful difference. You'll also learn how to spot common treatment pitfalls, avoid misleading social media trends, and understand why education is one of the most powerful tools for improving eczema outcomes. If you're looking for practical, trustworthy guidance to help keep your child's skin healthy and comfortable, this episode is for you.

Hands on blue fabric

Episode 6

Beyond the Basics: A Masterclass on Managing Severe Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

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Beyond the Basics: A Masterclass on Managing Severe Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

EPISODE 6

Severe eczema can be more than just dry, itchy skin. It can affect sleep, school, daily activities, and overall quality of life for both children and their families. In this episode, Dr. K teams up with internationally recognized pediatric dermatologist Dr. Robert Sidbury to explore advanced strategies for managing severe atopic dermatitis. Together, they discuss how to get the most out of topical treatments, when systemic medications may be appropriate, and how newer therapies are transforming care for children with difficult-to-control disease. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, they share practical insights and expert perspectives to help families better understand treatment options and feel more confident navigating the challenges of severe eczema.

Pre-teen using under eye strips

Episode 7

All the Kids are Doing It: Getting Smart - and Having Some Fun - with Social Media Skin Trends

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All the Kids are Doing It: Getting Smart (and Having Some Fun) with Social Media Skin Trends

EPISODE 7

Social media is filled with skincare routines, product recommendations, and viral trends aimed at younger and younger audiences, making it difficult to know what's safe, effective, or even necessary for children. In this episode, Dr. K is joined by Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness, Immediate Past President of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology, to take a closer look at the skincare trends influencing kids and teens today. Together, they separate fact from fiction, explore the science behind popular practices like "slugging" and "glass skin," and discuss the potential risks of viral challenges and unproven products. Tune in for expert guidance that can help you make confident decisions about your child's skincare and keep their skin healthy, safe, and protected from the latest online hype.

Young child's eye with a mark below it

Episode 8

The EYES Have it: The Overlap of Kids’ Skin & Eye Conditions

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The EYES Have it: The Overlap of Kids’ Skin & Eye Conditions

EPISODE 8

Many skin conditions can affect the eyes, making it important to recognize when a skin concern may need additional attention. In this episode of Don't Be Rash!, Dr. K is joined by pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Robert Kitei to discuss how conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, allergies, herpes simplex virus (HSV), hemangiomas, and port-wine birthmarks can impact children's eye health. They also cover potential eye-related side effects of medications and share practical tips on when to seek specialized care. Tune in for expert insights that can help protect your child's vision and overall well-being.

Side of individuals head

Episode 9

The MANE Point: There's No Such Thing as 'Mild' Alopecia Areata

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The MANE Point: There's No Such Thing as 'Mild' Alopecia Areata

EPISODE 9

Hair loss in children can be emotionally challenging and often raises questions about both diagnosis and treatment. In this episode, Dr. Andrew C. Krakowski is joined by pediatric hair specialist Dr. Brittany Craiglow to discuss alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes patchy or more extensive hair loss. Together, they explore how alopecia areata presents, the impact it can have on children and families, and the latest advances in treatment, including JAK inhibitors. They also discuss why every case of alopecia areata deserves careful attention and support, regardless of the amount of hair loss. Tune in for expert insights that can help families better understand this condition and navigate treatment options with confidence.

Blue line on a baby's diaper

Episode 10

Down in the Dumps: The Approach to Diagnosing, Treating, and Preventing Diaper Dermatitis

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Down in the Dumps: The Approach to Diagnosing, Treating, and Preventing Diaper Dermatitis

EPISODE 10

Diaper rash is one of the most common skin concerns in babies and young children, but not every rash has the same cause or requires the same treatment. In this episode, Dr. K is joined by board-certified pediatric dermatologist Dr. Caroline Piggott to help families understand the many conditions that can lead to diaper dermatitis. Together, they discuss how to recognize common causes, including yeast (Candida) infections, irritation, and other skin disorders, along with practical treatment strategies for each. Tune in for expert guidance that can help you identify what's behind your child's diaper rash and feel more confident about finding relief.

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