White spots on your child’s skin? Here’s the cause and cure!

White spots on the skin in children often worry parents. This condition is mostly related to the following reasons:

Why do they appear?

1. Pityriasis (pityriasis alba) — the most common cause. These are light spots left after mild skin inflammation, mostly seen on the face, neck, and arms.
2. Vitamin deficiency, especially of D and B12.
3. Fungal infection (e.g., pityriasis versicolor) — changes skin pigmentation.
4. Sun exposure — sometimes spots remain after the skin heals from sunburn.

What are the symptoms?
1. Appearance of pale or white spots on the skin
2. Spots are flat, sometimes dry
3 Itching is absent or very mild
4. More noticeable in summer under sunlight

How is it treated?
- Pityriasis often does not require treatment and disappears over time
- If spots are dry, moisturizers and emollient creams are used
- If due to fungus, doctor-prescribed antifungal ointments are helpful
- If vitamins are lacking — adjust diet or take supplements

White spots may sometimes indicate more serious conditions. If they persist or spread, consult a specialist.

Pityriasis alba (commonly known as white spots on children’s skin) is usually a harmless and self-resolving condition.

How long does it last?
- Pityriasis alba spots can last from a few weeks to a year.
- In mild cases: fade within 1–3 months
- If the skin is dry or exposed to sunlight — can persist for 6–12 months.

If spots persist or additional symptoms appear (itching, inflammation, spreading), a dermatologist should be consulted.