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Patches of skin losing color

Also called: Vitiligo, white patches, hypopigmentation

Patches of skin losing color can be vitiligo, where pigment cells are lost, or other conditions like tinea versicolor (a yeast infection) or post-inflammatory lightening after eczema. Vitiligo isn't contagious or dangerous but can affect self-esteem. Treatments can help restore color.

Common causesVitiligo, tinea versicolor, eczema, sun damage
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifNew patches or spreading, or with other symptoms
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Vitiligo causes milky-white patches, often on the face, hands, around the mouth, and genitals. It may spread over time and is linked to autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease.

Tinea versicolor causes light or dark scaly patches on the chest and back, more noticeable after sun exposure. Pityriasis alba causes pale, dry patches on children's faces. Rarely, numb light patches can signal other conditions.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonNew white or light patches. Patches that spread. Patches that are numb. Light patches with tiredness, weight change, or feeling cold (possible thyroid problem).

Causes

Causes include vitiligo, tinea versicolor, pityriasis alba, post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (sun-related small spots), and, rarely, Hansen's disease or skin lymphoma.

OwieClear has pages on 2 conditions that can cause patches of skin losing color. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Pale patches on the skin (pityriasis alba or after a rash)Often treated at home

    Lighter patches of skin, often on a child's face, arms, or upper body, or where a rash or injury has healed.

  • VitiligoSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Smooth white patches where the skin loses its color, often on the face, hands, and around the mouth.

What you can do at home

  • Use sunscreen on patches to prevent burning.
  • Use cosmetics to blend if you wish.
  • Seek support if it affects how you feel.

Medicines

Vitiligo may be treated with steroid or calcineurin creams, ruxolitinib cream, or light therapy. Tinea versicolor is treated with antifungal shampoos or creams.

At the doctor

The provider will look at the patches, sometimes under a special light.

Questions you may be asked

  • When patches appeared
  • Spreading
  • Itching or scaling
  • Family history
  • Thyroid or autoimmune conditions

The exam

A skin exam, often with a Wood's lamp.

Tests

  • Skin scraping for yeast
  • Thyroid tests

Prevention

Protect your skin.

  • Use sunscreen
  • Treat skin conditions early

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.