Flat, smooth, lighter (hypopigmented) patches of skin are typical of pityriasis alba. This image displays a close-up of pityriasis alba. Areas of the skin that are lighter in color and flat to the touch are typical of pityriasis alba. On this child, the lighter-colored flat spots of pityriasis alba are joining together to form large irregular patches.
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Pityriasis Alba  A parent's guide for infants and babies

Picture of Pityriasis Alba: Flat, smooth, lighter (hypopigmented) patches of skin are typical of pityriasis alba. Divider line
Flat, smooth, lighter (hypopigmented) patches of skin are typical of pityriasis alba.
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Self-Care Guidelines
If you suspect that your child has pityriasis alba, the most important self-care measure is to keep the skin well moisturized. Try the following:
  • Use non-soap cleansers or moisturizing soaps.
  • Apply moisturizers such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) or fragrance-free ointments and creams.
  • Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.
  • Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream sparingly for 3–7 days.
When to Seek Medical Care
Call your child's doctor for evaluation if the condition does not improve with self-care measures, if it seems to be getting worse, or if it spreads to other areas.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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