Pale patches on the skin (pityriasis alba or after a rash)

Overview

Pityriasis alba is a mild form of eczema. Pale spots can also follow any rash, burn, or injury.

Vitiligo causes chalk-white patches with sharp edges and needs a different plan.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pale or light patches of skin
• Patches of skin losing color

Less common

• Mild dryness or flaking

When to get medical care

Causes

Mild eczema or healing after inflammation.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Eczema
• Children

Possible complications

• Vitiligo

Diagnosis

A clinician can usually tell by looking.

Questions you may be asked

• Eczema or recent rashes

The exam

Skin check, sometimes with a special light.

Treatment

Gentle care helps the color return.

Self-care

• Moisturize twice a day
• Use daily sunscreen so the skin around doesn't darken
• Use mild, fragrance-free soap

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To help it fade evenly:

• Daily sunscreen
• Moisturize

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Harmless; color returns.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is this vitiligo?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pale patches on the skin (pityriasis alba or after a rash)