Learn About Pityriasis Alba
Pityriasis alba is a common skin disorder that causes patches of light-colored (hypopigmented) areas.
The cause is unknown but may be linked to atopic dermatitis (eczema). The disorder is most common in children and teens. It is more noticeable in children with dark skin.
The problem areas on the skin (lesions) often start as slightly red and scaly patches that are round or oval. They usually appear on the face, upper arms, neck, and upper middle of the body. After these lesions go away, the patches turn light-colored (hypopigmented).
The patches do not tan easily. Because of this, they may get red quickly in the sun. As the skin surrounding the patches darkens normally, the patches may become more visible.
Your provider may recommend the following treatments:
- Moisturizer
- Mild steroid creams such as hydrocortisone
- Medicine, called immunomodulators, applied to the skin to reduce inflammation
- Treatment with ultraviolet light to control the inflammation
- Medicines by mouth or shots to control the dermatitis, if severe
- Laser treatment
Icahn School Of Medicine At Mount Sinai
Nanette Silverberg is a Dermatologist in New York, New York. Dr. Silverberg is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Alba. Her top areas of expertise are Vitiligo, Molluscum Contagiosum, Pityriasis Alba, and Hypomelanotic Disorder.
Lacey Kruse is a Dermatologist in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Kruse is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Alba. Her top areas of expertise are Familial Multiple Nevi Flammei, Stork Bite, Linear Hamartoma Syndrome, and Vascular Birthmark.
Advanced Specialty Care
Dmitriy Timerman is a Dermatologist in Danbury, Connecticut. Dr. Timerman is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Alba. His top areas of expertise are Contact Dermatitis, Pharyngomaxillary Space Abscess, Pompholyx Eczema, and Plaque Psoriasis.
Pityriasis alba usually goes away on its own with patches returning to normal pigment over many months.
Patches may get sunburned when exposed to sunlight. Applying sunscreen and using other sun protection can help prevent sunburn.
Contact your provider if your child has patches of hypopigmented skin.
Published Date: April 01, 2025
Published By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Dinulos JGH. Light-related diseases and disorders of pigmentation. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 19.
Patterson JW. Disorders of pigmentation. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon's Skin Pathology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 11.
Seneschal J, Passeron T, Torrelo A, Ortonne J-P. Vitiligo and other disorders of hypopigmentation. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 66.