PITYRIASIS ALBA

PITYRIASIS ALBA

Definition:

Tinea alba is a skin condition of unknown cause which usually affects children and young adults characterized by round or oval hypo-pigmented patches on the face with very fine scales. It is a self-limiting disease and it is not contagious.

Causes:

There is no known cause for Tinea alba.

Triggering factors:

  • Humid climate
  • Heat
  • Detergent and soaps
  • Stress
  • Dry skin
  • Deficiency of vitamins and calcium
  • Worms and parasites

Symptoms:

It mainly affects children and young adults characterized by round or oval hypo-pigmented patches (1-4cm) mostly on the face with very fine scales. Occasionally, it may be associated with mild itching.

Commonly affected parts:

  • Cheeks
  • Around the mouth
  • Forehead
  • Chin
  • Chest and shoulders

Pityriasis Alba becomes worse in the summer season; it becomes more prominent as the skin tans in the surrounding area due to sun exposure.

Although the condition typically lasts six to twelve months or more without treatment, Pityriasis Alba usually resolves after puberty or by the time the child reaches adulthood.

Treatment:

Usually treatment is not required as it gets settled down on its own. Patients are suggested to keep away from harsh sunlight. Also, swimming may be avoided to avoid prominent look of the spots on face; as chlorine in pool water could lead to tanning. Primarily treatment consists of good skin care and applications of moisturizer. If there is redness or itching then steroid based cream is prescribed.

Lesions become prominent in sun exposure, so to reduce the discrepancy sunscreen creams are recommended.

Homeopathic approach for the treatment of Pityriasis Alba:

In resistant cases, some homeopathic medicines help recovery. Homeopathy is recommended if the disease does not self-recover in about three months.

Homeopathic medicines for Tinea alba

Tinea alba may not require any medicine, as it is self-limiting. However, it takes a long time to resolve spontaneously, then homeopathy can come to rescue.

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