Houston dermatologist urges families to add skin checks to back-to-school prep

Dr. Andrew Quinn of Quinn Dermatology says late-summer skin checks can help Houston-area students avoid acne flare-ups, rashes, infections and other issues as school, sports and outdoor activities ramp up. He is encouraging parents to look for warning signs before the fall semester begins.

Why it matters: - August in Southeast Texas brings heat, humidity and rain that can trigger sweat-related irritation, fungal infections and acne flare-ups. - Student athletes face added risk from outdoor practices, heavy equipment and more time spent sweating. - Early skin checks can help prevent discomfort, missed practices and school disruptions.

What happened: - Dr. Andrew Quinn, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Quinn Dermatology, urged families to include skin health in back-to-school checklists. - Quinn said the guidance applies as students return to classrooms, football fields, volleyball courts, cross-country trails and marching band practices. - The reminder comes as families are already handling school supplies, sports physicals, immunizations and new clothes.

The details: - Quinn advised parents to watch for acne that does not improve with over-the-counter treatment. - He also pointed to persistent rashes, eczema flare-ups, warts, ringworm, changing moles and unusual skin lesions. - Recurring heat rash and sports-related irritation are also warning signs. - Quinn recommended that student athletes shower after practice and change out of sweaty uniforms promptly. - He also recommended cleaning athletic equipment regularly, avoiding shared towels and wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen during outdoor activities. - Quinn Dermatology serves patients of all ages at its Houston and Beaumont locations. - The practice offers medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including acne treatment, eczema care, skin cancer screenings, mole evaluations and pediatric dermatology.

Between the lines: - The message is less about cosmetic concerns and more about catching common skin problems before they interfere with sports, school attendance and daily comfort. - The timing suggests a preventive care push before the busy fall season increases demand for appointments.

What's next: - Parents who want a back-to-school skin evaluation are being encouraged to contact Quinn Dermatology before the fall rush. - Families can learn more at quinndermatology.com.

The bottom line: - A quick skin check in August could spare students weeks of irritation later in the school year.