Pityriasis alba is a skin problem that causes the appearance of pink or reddish spots on the skin, which disappear and leave a lighter spot. This problem mainly affects dark-skinned children and young adults, but it can arise at any age and race.
A specific cause for the onset of pityriasis alba is not yet known, but it is not hereditary and, therefore, if there is any case in the family, it does not mean that other people may have it.
Pityriasis alba is often curable, disappearing naturally, however, light spots can remain on the skin for a few years, and worsen during the summer due to the tanning process.
Main symptoms
The most characteristic symptom of pityriasis alba is the appearance of round reddish spots that disappear in a few weeks and leave lighter spots on the skin. These spots appear more often in places like:
- Face;
- Upper arms;
- Neck;
- Chest;
- Back.
Blemishes can be easier to spot during the summer, when the skin is more tanned, so some people may not even notice the appearance of blemishes for the rest of the year.
In addition, in some people, the spots of pityriasis alba may end up peeling and appear drier than the rest of the skin, especially during the winter.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of pityriasis alba is usually made by a dermatologist only by observing the spots and assessing the history of the symptoms, with no need for any more specific test or examination.
How the treatment is done
There is no specific treatment for pityriasis alba, as the stains end up disappearing over time on their own. However, if the spots are red for a long time, the dermatologist may prescribe an ointment with corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, to reduce inflammation and relieve redness.
In addition, if the stains become dry, some type of moisturizing cream can be applied to extremely dry skin, such as those from Nivea, Neutrogena or Dove, for example.
During the summer it is also advisable to apply sunscreen, with a protection factor of 30 or higher, on the affected skin whenever it is necessary to be exposed to the sun, to prevent the spots from becoming too marked.
What causes pityriasis alba
There is no specific cause for pityriasis alba, but it is believed to arise due to a small inflammation of the skin and is not contagious. Anyone can end up developing pityriasis, even if they have no history of skin problems.
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