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By Dr. Deepthi Atmakuri – Clinica Derm, Hyderabad
As a parent, discovering white patches on your child’s face can naturally bring a wave of concern. The first worry is often: Is it vitiligo? Is it serious? But rest assured, in most cases, these patches are harmless and temporary. The most common cause in school-aged children is a skin condition called Pityriasis Alba, and it is more common than you think.
At Clinica Derm, I often meet parents who are confused or anxious about these spots. This blog will help you understand what white patches mean, what causes them, how to manage them at home, and when it’s time to visit a dermatologist.
Understanding Pityriasis Alba: A Common Cause in Children
White patches on the face of children, particularly between the ages of 3 to 16, are frequently diagnosed as Pityriasis Alba. These appear mostly on the cheeks but can also show up on the neck, arms, or shoulders. Initially, they may look like light pink or slightly red dry spots and eventually fade into lighter-than-normal patches of skin.
Pityriasis Alba is not contagious, not painful, and usually resolves on its own. However, the patches can become dry or mildly itchy and may become more visible after sun exposure—especially in tanned areas, as these spots don’t darken the same way.
What Causes These White Patches?
There isn’t a single cause of Pityriasis Alba, but it’s often linked to dry skin, mild eczema, or sun exposure. In some cases, nutritional deficiencies—especially of Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and calcium—can contribute to pigmentation loss.
While fungal infections (like Tinea Versicolor) and vitiligo are often assumed to be the cause, they have distinct symptoms and require different treatment. For instance, vitiligo patches tend to have sharply defined, stark-white borders, unlike the soft, diffused patches of Pityriasis Alba. Fungal infections may be itchy, scaly, and spread with time—these require medical treatment.
At Clinica Derm, we perform a clinical skin examination and may use a Wood’s Lamp test or KOH microscopy if there’s any doubt about the diagnosis.
How to Take Care of Your Child’s Skin at Home
In most mild cases, Pityriasis Alba can be managed at home with basic skincare. The primary focus should be on restoring the skin’s moisture and preventing dryness. Here are a few things I advise parents in my clinic:
- Regular moisturizing is key. Use a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cream two to three times a day, especially after bathing.
- Mild soap or cleanser: Avoid harsh soaps. Choose gentle, pH-balanced skincare products.
- Sun protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum child-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on the face when going outdoors.
- Balanced diet: Encourage foods rich in vitamins D, E, and healthy fats—like milk, leafy greens, nuts, and fruits. If needed, your doctor may suggest supplements.
Sometimes, for cosmetic comfort or itchiness, we may recommend a mild steroid cream or a non-steroidal ointment —but only under medical supervision.
Is De-worming Necessary?
While white patches are not usually caused by worms, routine de-worming every six months is still advised for growing children as part of general pediatric care. It supports better nutrient absorption, which indirectly helps improve skin health.
When Should You Visit a Dermatologist?
Most white patches fade away in a few months without treatment. However, you should consult a dermatologist if:
- The patch becomes red, itchy, or painful
- The number or size of patches increases rapidly
- The borders become very distinct (suspicion of vitiligo)
- There is loss of sensation in the patch
- You notice your child is getting bothered emotionally or socially due to visible skin differences
Final Thoughts from Dr. Deepthi Atmakuri
White patches on your child’s face are often a minor skin condition like Pityriasis Alba. At Clinica Derm, we understand how concerning even small skin changes can be for parents. But most of the time, with gentle care and patience, these patches will resolve.
If you’re still unsure or the patches persist, don’t hesitate to book a consultation. A quick visit can clear your doubts and give your child the right care at the right time.