This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. Exención de responsabilidad en Español | Complete disclaimer
Pityriasis alba is a common skin condition in children.
Your child's skin has:
Your doctor will rule out other skin diseases as the cause of the light-colored skin.
The cause of pityriasis alba is unknown. It may have to do with dry skin or chemicals that come in contact with the skin.
The lighter patches of skin are more common in the summer, but they can occur at any time of year. They usually last for several weeks. The skin color then gradually returns to normal. Pityriasis alba does not harm a child.
Although no treatment is necessary for the full skin color to return, lotions and moisturizers may help the skin return to normal faster.
One percent hydrocortisone cream may also help to make the patches go away a little more quickly.
Once the patches have returned to normal, use skin lotions and moisturizers to help to decrease the chance that patches will return. Do not use 1% hydrocortisone cream on the face for long periods of time (months) without first talking with your child's healthcare provider.
