Pityriasis Alba Treatment in Children

Recently, I noticed that the skin around my child’s eyes was noticeably lighter than other areas. Although my child didn't experience any discomfort, I was still concerned and worried that it might be vitiligo. After a visit to the hospital, my initial suspicion was confirmed; the diagnosis was "pityriasis alba.”

Characteristics of Pityriasis Alba

Pityriasis alba typically presents as mildly depigmented patches on the skin with indistinct borders, often accompanied by fine, flaky scales, which is why it is referred to as pityriasis alba. It commonly affects children aged 3 to 16 years, primarily appearing on the cheeks and around the mouth, though it can sometimes be found on the neck, shoulders, and, in rare cases, the trunk and limbs.

Causes of Pityriasis Alba

Pityriasis alba is quite common among preschool and school-aged children, especially those with dry skin or darker skin tones. It can occur on its own or may be a manifestation of atopic dermatitis. Additionally, several factors contribute to the development of pityriasis alba:

Excessive Sun Exposure: The condition is more prevalent during the spring and summer months, especially in children who spend extended periods outdoors under the sun.

Nutritional Imbalance: Children with an unbalanced diet, picky eating habits, or excessive nutrition intake are more susceptible to pityriasis alba.

Improper Skincare: Over-cleansing or neglecting to moisturize the skin during dry seasons can trigger pityriasis alba.

Parasitic Infections: Although parasitic infections were once linked to pityriasis alba, this cause has become rare in modern urban settings. When pityriasis alba occurs, other factors should be considered first, and anti-parasitic medications should not be given without proper medical advice.

Difference Between Pityriasis Alba and Vitiligo

Pityriasis alba and vitiligo are two distinctly different skin conditions. Vitiligo can appear anywhere on the body, with well-defined white patches that have smooth, scaleless surfaces. It generally doesn't cause itching or pain.

However, pityriasis alba can sometimes be mistaken for vitiligo, particularly in children. Parents are advised to monitor the condition, adjust the child’s diet, and maintain proper skin moisturization. If the symptoms don't improve after 2 to 3 months, or if the patches become whiter or spread, it's important to consult a dermatologist for a professional diagnosis.

Prevention and Care for Pityriasis Alba

Pityriasis alba usually doesn’t require medical treatment and often resolves on its own. To prevent it, parents can take the following measures:

Maintain Skin Moisturization: Regularly apply moisturizer, paying extra attention to the affected areas.

Sun Protection: Avoid outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, and use sun protection measures such as hats or sunscreen when necessary.

Balanced Diet: Ensure a varied diet for the child, including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, while reducing the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods.

After applying vitamin E cream for some time, along with proper sun protection and moisturization, and taking multivitamin supplements, my child’s pityriasis alba showed significant improvement.