Molluscum contagiosum specialists

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus and is typically seen in young children between the ages of 2–5 years old, although it can affect adults too. It causes raised skin bumps on the face, chest, arms or legs, with a small dimple or dot in the middle. 

Occasionally the spots can become itchy as they heal, and a secondary infection may develop, in which case topical cream can be prescribed by our specialists, who are experts in managing molluscum contagiosum. 

The short answer is yes. The virus is spread through skin to skin contact and through contaminated objects, such as toys and clothes, so toddlers and young children often pass it on when playing together. The virus can also be passed on by sharing a bath, or through using infected towels and bedding with someone who has the virus. 

The symptoms of molluscum contagiosum include: 

• Small spots and bumps that appear in clusters, ranging from 2–6mm across
• Bumps that are usually skin coloured but can be red, pink or, in darker skinned children, can be dark brown
• Mild itchiness if the bumps become inflamed
• Eczema-type dry red patches that can appear around the spots

It’s good to know that molluscum contagiosum in children usually needs no treatment. Although it can be unsettling seeing clusters of spots and bumps on your child’s skin, leaving them alone means there will be little or no scarring. Each bump usually lasts for 6–12 weeks before disappearing. 

However, new bumps can appear on other parts of your child’s body as the virus spreads, but this is usually not a problem if they are not causing discomfort. Overall, it can take around 6–18 months for your child’s skin to clear completely.  

With a skin condition as visible and persistent as molluscum contagiosum, it can definitely be helpful to see a medical professional. Our team of Paediatric Dermatologists have the expertise to accurately identify your child’s condition and provide guidance on how best to care for their skin while it heals.

Your child may also need medical treatment in the following circumstances: 

• If the spots become infected, antibiotics may be prescribed 
• If an eczema-type rash develops, a steroid cream can be prescribed
• If your child has a weakened immune system, our Consultant Dermatologists can provide specialist advice on how to look after them during this period

In most cases, molluscum contagiosum will naturally resolve without any need for treatment. However, it can take a while and there are steps you can take to care for your child’s skin in the meantime, including: 

• Having cool baths or using a damp towel on the area if the spots are causing itchiness or discomfort
• Using an unperfumed moisturiser regularly to prevent your child’s skin from drying out and becoming itchy
• Encouraging your child to avoid scratching or squeezing the spots if possible
• Keeping the affected areas covered

It can be hard to prevent the spread of the condition in your own household, but there are some steps you can take, including: 

• Avoiding sharing towels, clothing and bedding
• Keeping toys separate if possible
• Avoiding sharing baths
• When swimming, covering the affected areas with waterproof bandages
• Keeping the affected areas covered with loose clothing 

As molluscum contagiosum is a relatively harmless condition, experts do not recommend keeping your child off school or nursery.