Superficial mycoses are among the most common skin infections. Molecular methods can accelerate diagnosis. In childhood, tinea capitis, especially caused by anthropophilic dermatophytes, is of rising importance. Oral therapy is essential. Index cases due to T. tonsurans, T. violaceum and M. audouinii warrant screening of all family members and close contacts and treatment of asymptomatic carriers. Onychomycosis, although uncommon in children, increases with age. Risk factors are sporting activities and infected parents. Recalcitrant candidosis may be indicative of immune deficiency. Among children in the tropics, pityriasis versicolor is not an uncommon disease. Furthermore Malassezia yeasts seem to be associated mainly with the head, neck and face types of atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome, corresponding to the numerous sebaceous glands found in this region, but it remains to be clarified whether this is also applicable to children.