Pityriasis alba is a common skin condition that affects young children and teenagers. It causes pale or lighter patches of skin, most commonly on the face, but can also appear on the neck, arms or upper body. This condition is not contagious and cannot be passed on to others.
The exact cause of pityriasis alba is not fully understood. It is thought to be associated with dry skin or eczema, and is more common in children who have a history of eczema, asthma, or allergies.
Common signs and symptoms include:
Pityriasis Alba is a benign condition that often resolves on its own and may not need medical treatment. Regular use of a moisturising cream can help reduce dryness and appearance of patches. Gentle skin care and avoiding harsh soaps or fragranced products are recommended. Using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 50 can help reduce the contrast between the pale patches and surrounding skin.
If the patches are red or itchy, a doctor may prescribe a low-potency steroid cream for short-term use. In some cases, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory cream such as topical tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel) may be prescribed, especially for sensitive areas like the face. These topical treatments help reduce skin inflammation and hasten the skin’s return to its normal colour.
Parents are advised to seek medical advice for their child if the patches are very itchy, progressively spreading, fail to improve with moisturising creams or if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis.
