White Patches of Skin

Many different conditions can produce new white patches of skin in children. This article highlights two of the most common causes of white patches of skin.

Dr. Greene’s Answer:

Every year as the final weeks of summer come to a close, I am asked by parents on the phone, in the office, and online about white patches of skin that their children have developed. It’s almost a Labor Day tradition.

Fun in the sun often brings out these white spots — especially noticeable at the end of the summer. While a healthy, balanced diet of whole foods is very beneficial, diet is probably not responsible for your nephew’s white patches of skin. Many different conditions can produce new white patches of skin in children; I will highlight two of the most common.

White Patches of Skin: Pityriasis Alba

Doctors call one of these conditions pityriasis alba, which is Latin for white, scaly patches.  It is very common, especially in children under the age of 12.  Up to 5% of children in the United States are affected with this benign condition. Children with this extremely common condition develop uneven, round or oval patches after sun exposure. The patches are dry with very fine scales. Varying from 1 to 2 inches in diameter, they are most common on the face (cheeks), neck, upper trunk, and upper arms of children 3 to 16 years old.

These are completely benign, similar to a mild form of eczema. They are most common in children with dry skin.

Treatment of Pityriasis Alba

The involved patches don’t darken with sun exposure the way the surrounding skin does. Treatment involves daily lubrication with a good moisturizer, especially whenever the skin gets wet.

Using sunscreen can decrease the appearance of the patches by inhibiting the skin around them from darkening. Sometimes topical steroid creams help. Even with no treatment at all, the spots will disappear on their own — although it may take months to years. Some people get pityriasis alba every summer during childhood. Even then, the pigmentation will eventually end up normal.

White Patches of Skin: Tinea Versicolor

The other extremely common white-patch condition is called tinea versicolor. This is a mild, superficial fungal infection, somewhat similar to ringworm (true ringworm can also result in white patches). Since the affected skin doesn’t change color well with sun exposure, it usually becomes apparent as white patches during the summer months. In the winter it may seem to disappear, or even seem to become slightly darkened patches as the surrounding skin gets paler (this is where the name versicolor comes from).

Tinea versicolor is most common in adolescents and young adults 15 to 30 years old (although it can certainly happen at any age). The infection is chronic and recurs easily, but it causes no other health problems. People are most susceptible to the fungus during hot months in humid areas. Taking steroids, excessive sweating, wearing tight-fitting clothing, and chronic illness can all predispose a person to tinea versicolor, but someone without any of these factors can still get this mild infection.

The patches of tinea versicolor can appear white, tan, or pink. The white patches look very similar to pityriasis alba. There are two good ways to tell them apart.

The most reliable way is to have a doctor gently scrape the white patch, dissolve the scrapings in potassium hydroxide, and look at what is left under a microscope. The classic “spaghetti-and-meatball” appearance of budding yeast confirms the diagnosis of tinea versicolor. A quicker and easier approach is to look at the patches under a black light. The patches of tinea versicolor will usually light up with a blue-white, yellow, or orange color.

Treatment of Tinea Versicolor

Topical antifungal medicines are very effective for treating tinea versicolor, but there is a more convenient, less expensive, highly effective alternative.

Selenium shampoos are great at getting rid of the fungus. Simply apply a thin layer over the affected skin before bed (with a wide surrounding margin, since it may already be beginning to spread). Wash thoroughly the next morning.

The problem is that no matter what the treatment, it comes back easily. Whatever treatment is used for tinea versicolor, all bedding and nightclothes should be changed after treatment to prevent recurrence. Also, re-treating once a week for 3-4 weeks and then once a month for 3-4 months makes it much less likely to come back.

With either pityriasis alba or tinea versicolor, even when the condition is effectively treated, the white patches of skin will remain for a while. At least several weeks must pass for the newly healthy skin to adjust its color to the amount of ongoing sunlight exposure, so that it will match the surrounding skin.

At your nephew’s upcoming three-year-old well child exam, it would be wise for his parents to ask the doctor about the white patches of skin (just to be sure that it isn’t one of the other more unusual causes). But in the meantime, relax. Both of these mild, benign, primarily cosmetic conditions are so common, Amy, that “got some white patches” could show up on many “What I did this summer” essays.

References and Resources

Aaron, Denise. Tinea Versicolor. Merck Manual Professional Version (online). 2022

Givler DN, et alPityriasis Alba. [Updated 2022 Aug 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022.

Miazek N, et al. Pityriasis Alba–Common Disease, Enigmatic Entity: Up-to-Date Review of the Literature. Pediatr Dermatol. 2015: ;32(6):786-91.

Photo credit: Lisa Runnels

Dr. Greene is a practicing physician, author, national and international TEDx speaker, and global health advocate. He is a graduate of Princeton University and University of California San Francisco.

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  1. Jassa

    So i decided to wax my arms with wax strips then it messed up my skin so i got these white patches on my arms and i’ve always been insecure and would wear hoodies everyday, then recently i went to the beach and i got tanned and i was happy cuz the patches and tiny spots sorta went away but then my arm peeled and it made my patches worse please help me

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  2. Kristen

    My 83 year old father just started getting white patches on his front of legs and arms. His face also has red /white irritation. He is otherwise healthy.
    He does not want to go to doctor but it looks terrible.

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  3. Lydia Rankin

    So a couple months ago i noticed a white spot on my left butt cheek….not a pimple. Almost like a birthmark. Feels a little wrinkled and there isn’t as much muscle there as there is in the rest of my butt. Is it cancerous? I also have a large patched birthmark that is the same color as the spot on my butt on the left side of my body

    Added:
    • Lydia,

      So sorry. We can’t diagnose online. If I were you, I’d see a dermatologist and have a full-body skin check. I say this because I do see a dermatologist annually and see looks at very inch of my body for anything suspicious. In this age of increased skin cancer, it’s the responsible thing to do.

      Best, @MsGreene
      Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

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  4. Priyanka motwani

    Hlw dr i m 18yrs old nd frm lst 7 to 8yrs i m suffering frm this white spots nd i have suggested many doctors but doesnt relly work for me plz suggest somethig wht should i do

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    • Martha

      I did some research if your vitamins D is low can cause white patches from the sun and dry skin. I had my blood work done and my vitamin be was very low. Currently taking supplements also probiotics. Research vitamin D you be amazed about what you read. I seen 3 dermatologist they say Use moisturizer use less hot showers. I I decided I had enough and started doing my own homework. Currently starting a YouTube channel to keep track of my progress and how long to take to clear up. To help others. Currently I have them on both arms a few on my face not noticeable

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  5. Pooja

    I am a 19 year old girl and Suddenly , white patches are appearing on my face . I don’t know why and I am very tensed .
    Please tell my why is this happening and what should I apply on my face to get rid of it .

    Added:
    • chethan kumar

      try sapat lotion
      it may be work

      Added:
    • Mike quick

      Have to kill the fungus. it’s just the same as athletes feet but on your face. You can use this soap called defense which is very good.

      Added:
    • Nimanneet

      Ok lam 19 yrs old and I recently got white spots on face around a month ago and my diet is also good.It is growing day by day on different places of the skin
      Plse tell me what to use

      Added:
      • Pooja,

        If these patches are “Pityriasis Alba, treatment involves daily lubrication with a good moisturizer, especially whenever the skin gets wet. Using sunscreen can decrease the appearance of the patches by inhibiting the skin around them from darkening. Sometimes topical steroid creams help. Even with no treatment at all, the spots will disappear on their own.” per Dr. Greene. However, not all white patches are Pityriasis Alba.

        If they are tinea versicolor, a mild, superficial fungal infection, somewhat similar to ringworm (true ringworm can also result in white patches) they are treated differently. “Topical antifungal medicines are very effective for treating tinea versicolor, but there is a more convenient, less expensive, highly effective alternative.

        Selenium shampoos are great at getting rid of the fungus. Simply apply a thin layer over the affected skin before bed (with a wide surrounding margin, since it may already be beginning to spread). Wash thoroughly the next morning.” per Dr. Greene.

        The question is how do you tell the difference? This is important since they require different treatments. “The most reliable way is to have a doctor gently scrape the white patch, dissolve the scrapings in potassium hydroxide, and look at what is left under a microscope. The classic “spaghetti-and-meatball” appearance of budding yeast confirms the diagnosis of tinea versicolor. A quicker and easier approach is to look at the patches under a black light. The patches of tinea versicolor will usually light up with a blue-white, yellow, or orange color.” per Dr. Greene.

        In either case, these are benign. However, one of we can not rule out something altogether different based on a description over the internet. To get a conclusive diagnosis, you’d need to have a doctor look at the spots.

        Best, @MsGreene
        Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

        Added:
  6. Brandy Sweat

    Hi doc I’ve had a rash that itches really bad for couple months now..i thought it was poison oak but it hasn’t went away I’m taking antibiotics but not helping its only on my face arms and now my legs what could it be

    Added:
    • Lori Rustin

      See a doctor before treating, but sounds like you may need a steroid.

      Added:
  7. Mary

    Hi Doc, I hope you are well

    My daughter is 8 years of age, at the age of 6 she started getting white patches all over her body , please can you assist

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  8. Ritu

    Mydaughter recently developed circular white patches on her chest abdomen and neck..what is the cause of it

    Added:
  9. Pavi

    Hi sir, i have dry white patches on face. In winter also i have this patches, so please give some ideas about this and what i have to do? Plz say about treatment sir

    Added:
  10. Nanadan

    Sir ,Now I am 16. I have dry white patches around my nose region.I consulted many doctors.Eventhough it becomes lighter in colour after some medications it has not (even once) gone completely till last 3 years. .

    Added:
  11. Chloe

    Hi, I have 3 white circles on my back closely together and in perfect circles, I wondered if this was down to sun exposure? As this only appeared while I have been in Mexico. But they are noticable and it worries me.

    Added:
  12. Jode

    My partner n I have these rashes

    Added:
  13. Vishakha

    Sir in every 6 months I get white spots on my face after treatment they remove in 10 days but it is recurring pls reply m worried

    Added:
  14. Blessing

    Hi,my 6 weeks baby have some white spot on her face ,neck and chest.but her skin is very soft.also on her VG the is big red patch.pls help.

    Added:
  15. Pankaj kumar

    Hello sir i am pankaj 25 years old from india i have white spors on my body on difrent difrent place and they are incresing day by day when i use betnovate cream then they see light other wise dark .this is fungs problem or any dangrous diesese please reply me i am worried
    Thanks

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  16. avani

    Hii doctor my baby having white patches on face i consult skin specilist she gave fultison tecum 0.03 ontiment but patches are lok alike i am using ointment since 15 days

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  17. romaisa

    my name is romaisa . i am 19 years old girl. i had many white dry patches on my face especially in winter. after washing face skin looks normal but after sometime it becomes the same dry and stretched. one doctor said that due to dandruff in head this fungus also reaches to the face .some says that this is due to lack of calcium. i was recommended CONAZ shampoo. but the result is same every winter.my skin is very uneven, non absorbing and pigmented .plz tell me the remedy .i will be very thankfull to you.

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  18. romaisa

    hello sir i am romaisa , i am 19 years old i, have dry skin and especially in winter white dry patches sometimes itchy appears on my face (cheeks) . during washing face they disappears and skin looks normal but after 5 minutes skin becomes more dry and stretched. my face skin is very un even and non absorbing. i am very fed up of this condition plz tell me a complete treatment and precautions for curing the disease. i have also consulted many doctors some of them says due to dandruff in head this fungus also reaches to the face . some says that due to lack of calcium it occurs.plz help me

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  19. Patience

    Good evening Doc, when I was pregnant I had itches on my vulva. Treated it ytacan plus cream and the itch left. After giving birth while doing sitz bath I discovered some whitish rash growth on the same area. What could it be?

    Added:
  20. hanee

    hi I’m hanee from india i got ringworm and i applied the garlic and after 3 days ringworm gone but at same part i got white patches is it normal or its starting of vertiligo?

    Added:
  21. hanee

    hi I’m hanee from india i got ringworm and i applied the garlic and after 3 days ringworm gone but that part i got white patches is it ormal or its stating of vertiligo?

    Added:
  22. Riya mohite

    Hii my daughter is 4 month old n has lighter white spetches on her face what is the reason please reply me m worried about that
    Thank you

    Added:
  23. Sugirtha

    Hi Natalie my daughter is 13 years old she is having white patches in her face, obviously, it was disappeared when she was admitted in the hospital with the complaints of Dengue fever . Again it started… Is it due to what?

    Added:
  24. Sandy

    Hi… I have white spot on my body and neck . May I know how to get rid of it

    Thanks

    Added:
    • aroosa

      hi doc. i am 23 years old female. it started when i was 14 years. these white spots kept growing on more area of my body. these are sometimes itchy. how can i get rid of these. thanks

      Added:
  25. Brandi

    I found this article very helpful. My son has a few white patches on his cheeks. I remember getting the exact same thing every summer on my face then it would disappear until the next summer. So I figured it wasn’t nothing major. It’s just nice to hear the name of the spots and to know it’s really common in children. My family has a dark complexion which this is why I think we noticed it more.
    Thanks again,
    Brandi

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  26. Evans

    High Dr Green,you really helped me.I had white patches on my upper thighs, and was resently treated,but it always seems to come back.I will try and buy new clothes after the next treatment. May I ask if this disease could have any long term effects. Like can it cause infertility?
    Thankyou

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  27. Shah Aarif

    I have white patches on my face l am 20 years old

    Added:
  28. Kusum lata

    Good morning doctor.today in the morning I saw white patches around of my daughter privet part.she is only 6 years old.

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  29. Tara

    I had this as a kid for over a decade. It was near my elbow and about the size of a quarter. I’m the whitest person I know and this was whiter. Then I went through a crazy tanning booth phase in the 80’s. It went red, tanned, and 3 decades later it’s the same as the skin around it. I don’t know how or why this happened but it did.

    Added:
  30. jay

    I’m 94 years old, in good health. I have eczema elsewhere but the patches of
    dry skin spreading quickly across my back are new

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  31. Aditi Singh

    Hi Sir ,
    I am prince. one of my friend suffering a problem of whit spot in hand and legs .she is doing medicine near about 9 years but no any creat any good response on skin. please sir give me any bestree advice for this problem

    Added:
  32. Lexi Stringer

    Hi Dr
    So I have normal half skin but there are pale patches of skin on my arms around the elbows and my chest I’m very self-conscious about them and I don’t know how to remove them they feel just like normal skin just look weird. Thanks

    Added:
  33. Asma

    My son had chiken pox n after that he have white spot chest and back i dont understand what the reson of behind n he is only 12 years he is not taking proper diet example he dont eat meat fish chiken motton n even vegetables he like banana n grapes in fruit enounhh what i do i m very worrying about him n white patches appearing in 8 to 6 months what should i do suggest me what the reson

    Added:
  34. Lathif

    Hi Doctor, my son has this ptyriasis alba he has white patches on head and face from this year may starting onwards. He is undergoing treatment but with no result. Can u suggest me any remedy for it

    Added:
  35. We try very hard not to allow the Comments section of this site become a venue for marketing. As a result, comments with links to products are not typically approved. This comment, while it does include a link to a product, may be a service to readers, so we are publishing it, link and all.

    @MsGreene
    Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

    —————————-

    Hi Dr Greene,

    I just read your newsletter on white patches on skin. I would like to briefly tell you my story.

    I had tinea versicolor twice. The forest time I got it, an antifungal took care of it. The second time, I tried everything – including the Selsun Blue remedy you mentioned (which left a metallic taste in my mouth after about 20 minutes, so I nixed that) and nothing worked. I had it for a year, and it spread almost everywhere. After the metallic tasted freaked me out, I set out to create a cure on my own… And I did. After using the sugar scrub I created, for about 2 weeks, it was gone… And it’s never returned. That was ten years ago.

    While I cannot claim to cure, it worked for me, and last year I started marketing it as an all natural beauty product. Since then, I have helped many people get rid of this chronic fungus, safely and quite pleasantly. Here is website: http://www.lidomareskincare.com
    Have a great day.

    Carol Niotta,
    Founder, Lido Mare Skincare

    Added:
  36. Alma

    Can someone please help me ? It’s been a month that I’ve noticed a white patch growing on my left side of my face and it has a roughy texture. Does anyone know how I could get rid of it or what’s causing it ? Please let me know ? Anyone?

    Added:
    • Hanan

      Alma I am having same patches on my face but now they have turned black I’m so much worried about my skin….on the contrary I am having a same black spot on the other side from years!

      Added:
  37. Nina

    Thank you so much Dr. Greene. You saved me from so much worry.
    I have dark skin (Mexican ethnicity) and had never had patches of white skin on my face before. I thought this would be permanent, but after reading your wonderful article, I see hope that it will fade away. Thank you again. I will try the recommendations.

    Added:
  38. Valerie Kazamias

    I had a few spots of eczema on my trunk and used foderma eczema serum to help clear it up. I applied to the affected area 3x a day and it healed within a week. Works great on dry patches of skin as well.

    Added:
  39. Chungku

    Sir…my son is just 2 month and he has a white paches on his neck,below the chin. And I think it is spreading little by little. …so I need to know about this..

    Added:
  40. Cheryl Van De Griend

    Thank you for this information. My 8 y.o. Son has white spots on his checks for the 1st time. It came early summer, after sun exposure. This relieves my fear of it being food allergies. We will treat with aquaphore & hope it resolves with time. It is decreasing the ‘cuteness’ of his freckled face. 🙂

    Mama Cheryl

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  41. Denisia John

    My son has white scaly spot & patches from his legs to his feet,it itches him,doctor treatment him for tinea psorasis but medicaction not working,he is 2 but it is getting worse don’t know what to do?

    Added:
  42. Rong Basumatary

    Sir, my right testicles pain after I get erection and it swells…I believe some sort of hard flesh is engulfing my right testicles. Please help.

    Added:
  43. Corey Mondello

    Pityriasis Alba, apparently that’s what I have up and down my legs, hoping it won’t end up on my face

    Added:
  44. Briseyda ortega

    well, i have a white mark in my face but the doctor said that is a type of fungus and they gave me a shampoo but i doesn’t go away

    Added:
  45. Shumaila

    Hi I’m name is shumaila & I’m 22 years old my skin is dry & I’m also facing white spot on my face since childhood what’s the reason behind it i can’t understand because its disappear after few months but again happen after while so please guide me & tell me the reason … Its consult to food which i skip ??

    Added:
  46. Upasana

    Hi I m 19and i have white spots on my face. The doctor had provided some medicines to me but its been a month and the spots are not recovered. what else should i do??

    Added:
    • Adriel

      Me too, i have it for almost 6 weeks now using topical creams but the spots doesn’t to fade. Let me know how long you been dealing with this and what alternative treatments we can use?

      Added:
  47. gulzar ahmed

    My son is 6 year old I have seen some whit pitches on his chest and neck. I consulted local skin doctor last few months but still no improvement. Now I need some suggestions for best treatment for him kindly update me ASAP.

    Added:
  48. AAK

    My younger brother chick white spot increases with time, can you suggest me what I do with him and What type of mark that is?

    Added:
  49. angie wilson

    idid not have white spots until i worked in the hot sun

    Added:
  50. aluire

    This has been helpful for me because it’s been a while since I have these patches on my thighs and legs, it started from dry, scaly and discolored on my skin, I’ve been wondering what it is and because of the picture attached I’ve diagnosed it with tinea versicolor. I went to a doctor for a check up and she gave me a betamethasone valerate for medication . But is there any quick medication for this or any medication that can heal it for a short time? because I noticed that it has been spreading my thigh and leg. And i felt awkward for that, I became shy on wearing shorts. Also, I dont even get out of the house and I seldom get heat from the sun so how did I get this?

    Added:
    • Mich

      Hi
      I am a kidney transplant patient for many years already and recently realise i have white patches appearing on my legs. I am not expose to the sun but i take prednisolone long term. What do you think can help me? Please do reply.

      Added:
  51. Anja

    Hey Doc,
    Thank you soo much for this article. But i just wanted to say i also have these white patches and this has been happening for more than 4 years. I know this is due to sun exposure and it occurs during the summer seasons. It’s mainly on my cheeks but they’re rapidly spreading across the side of my face. I have seen my DP 3 times and every time they recommend that i use the selsun shampoo, they also told me it was Tinea Versicolor. But they don’t seem to be doing anything. I also do put sunscreen everyday but it still seems to be spreading quickly. They only start to go away during winter. I’m from Australia with an Indian background and i can’t really do anything about the heat! Is there anything i could do to make it fade away quicker?

    Added:
    • bums

      hey im n men of 35 i have these white spots on my scrotum and anus the dokter said is vitoligo but the cream is not working he gave me its more then 6 years now please help me

      Added:
      • Dan

        That is because the is no cure, its a genetic thing I believe, I have it over many areas of my body, although I found that once after surfing I developed a rash from rubbing on a patch of the white skin, after the rash healed the white patch had gone and to this day is my normal skin colour

        Added:
  52. Ben

    Why do you have this site people ask you for help and instead of a doctor trying to help you all just say go to a doctor, this is why the come to this site if you are not going to try to help them why don’t you do the whole world a favor and delete this. A doctor gives an oath to help people what is this cat doing sure not helping!

    Always remember W.W.J.D. SURE WOULD NOT LEAD THEM ON OR NOT HELP THEM THAT’S FOR SURE!

    Added:
    • Ben,

      I’m sorry you are disappointed.

      Here are a few things to think about:
      1) Dr. Greene has already answered hundreds of the questions that have been asked. He doesn’t charge for the service and makes the answers available for whoever would like to read them.
      2) There are thousands of people who read the articles every day and don’t ask a question because they found the answer to their question by reading the articles.
      3) A lot of the people who do ask questions are more serious cases and really need to see a doctor, i.e. they can not be treated over the internet.

      Best,
      @MsGreene
      Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom
      Note: Not Dr. Greene, not a doctor. Keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

      Added:
      • Bushra

        hi,how are you?hope you would like to reply soon.which fruits we should give our child to remove these white patches.

        thanks

        Added:
        • Bushra,

          I’m afraid I don’t know of any fruits that remove white patches, nor do I know of any research on the topic. Does anyone else reading this comment?

          @MsGreene
          Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom
          Note: Not Dr. Greene, not a doctor. Keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

          Added:
        • MUKESH

          My son is 5 years old and just one month back he has got white patch On both side below eyebrows what food and fruits are to be given to solve this problem

          Added:
    • Ingiwingi

      I am
      Happy I found this article! At least I know what to do until
      I get to my kids derm appt in The next three months; thanks to the insurance co!

      Added:
    • Ruth kenneth

      Ya me too bored by this site,,

      Added:
  53. prajjwal verma

    Hii ,
    My name name is Prajjwal and in my face white rough and dry spots come and then go after few months and it come in any season and go after some time so please suggest me home remedies that the spot never come in my face please please help me

    Added:
  54. Upasna Dutt

    Greetings,

    The information was really insightful thanks and regards.

    (aspiring dentist)

    Added:
  55. Aryan K.

    Doctor,
    I am Aryan and I am 15 Year Old. I got that patches on my upper trunk and on face. Is it Regular or my skin is affected from something.

    Added:
  56. Arsalaan

    Hii
    I’m arSlaan

    My girlfriend is suffering from temperory white patches on her face and her skin type is dry. Can u please suggest a good winter cream that can solve all these problems…

    Thank you..

    Added:
    • Arsalaan,

      It depends on the cause of the white patches? If they are caused by sun exposure, there is one treatment, if from a fungal infection, there is another treatment. Do you know which these are?

      @MsGreene

      Added:
      • Khan

        What should you do if it is sun exposure

        Added:
      • Ingiwingi

        One more thing, her white patches do not go away. She got
        One on her neck when she was 2; she’s 12 now; and it’s still there.
        Now her arms started to grow these patches two weeks ago and they are growing and a crazy rate! Not very dry and scaly either

        Added:
      • shaista

        sir i also have these white spots plz help me they are not fungal they are caused by sun exposure
        help me plz i am from pakistan

        Added:
  57. Mrs. Taramahesh

    Hi!

    I am 41yr I have white patches like square line and like scorpion shape on my buttocks, I am shame to show to Dr’s. This patches . My question is whether vitiligo resembles my patches. Please give answer Dr. And let me know Dr. Patches is increasing like scorpion shape. Please give me answer for my question. I am very much worried of this.

    I will be waiting for ur ans.

    And at last I like request u to send ur answer to my email address. [Moderator’s note: We do not answer any questions via email. Everything is in a public forum.]

    Added:
    • Mrs. Taramahesh,

      I strongly encourage you to go to your doctor. If you are embarrassed because your doctor is a male, change to w female physician.

      Also, you can pay a small fee and have a private conversation with a physician at HealthTap.com, but an in-person visit is much better.

      Best,
      @MsGreene

      Added:
  58. jeunisse

    This was extremely helpful. Thanks so much!

    Added:
  59. venkatesan kuppan

    My name is Venkatesan ,35 years old.I found some white patches on my left leg part and I doubt whether it will get spreaded.Any advice on this will be helpful

    Added:
    • Vankatesan,

      Here is something Dr. Greene wrote to another reader that may be helpful to you:

      “Pityriasis alba is Latin for white, scaly patches and it is the most common cause for them in childhood. Children with this extremely common condition develop uneven, round or oval patches after sun exposure. The patches are dry with very fine scales. Varying from 1 to 2 inches in diameter, they are most common on the face (cheeks), neck, upper trunk, and upper arms of children 3 to 16 years old.

      These are completely benign, similar to a mild form of eczema. They are most common in children with dry skin. The involved patches don’t darken with sun exposure the way the surrounding skin does. Treatment involves daily lubrication with a good moisturizer (such as Aquaphor), especially whenever the skin gets wet. Sometimes topical steroid creams help. Even with no treatment at all, the spots will disappear on their own — although it may take months to years. Some people get pityriasis alba every summer during childhood. Even then, the pigmentation will eventually end up normal.”

      Best,
      @MsGreene
      Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom

      Added:
    • Tamanna

      Me Tamanna,,,
      From 2 weeks I noticed some white fungus in my face,,,,,so the medicine named ‘Nivanil’ can I use this for my problem?

      Added:
      • Tamanna,

        I’m not familiar with that medication. What country is the medication used in?

        @MsGreene
        Co-founder and Executive Producer of DrGreene.com, Mom

        Added:
  60. anita

    Hello sir
    I m Anita. I m from India.
    I have small white patch on my face and arm. What is it. I m very worried about if. Pls help me

    Added:
    • Hi Anita,

      Here is something from Dr. Greene that may be helpful to you:

      “Pityriasis alba is Latin for white, scaly patches and it is the most common cause for them in childhood. Children with this extremely common condition develop uneven, round or oval patches after sun exposure. The patches are dry with very fine scales. Varying from 1 to 2 inches in diameter, they are most common on the face (cheeks), neck, upper trunk, and upper arms of children 3 to 16 years old.

      These are completely benign, similar to a mild form of eczema. They are most common in children with dry skin. The involved patches don’t darken with sun exposure the way the surrounding skin does. Treatment involves daily lubrication with a good moisturizer (such as Aquaphor), especially whenever the skin gets wet. Sometimes topical steroid creams help. Even with no treatment at all, the spots will disappear on their own — although it may take months to years. Some people get pityriasis alba every summer during childhood. Even then, the pigmentation will eventually end up normal.”

      Best,
      @MsGreene
      Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom

      Added:
  61. Menggay

    hi sir,
    my 5 month old baby boy have this small white spots at his back. what can it be? what should i do? thank you

    Added:
  62. Jazz

    Hi sir i have white patches on outer surface of right eyes and same patch on my one finger what to do so sir.

    Added:
    • Jazz,

      As Dr. Greene says, “Treatment involves daily lubrication with a good moisturizer such as Aquaphor, especially whenever the skin gets wet. Sometimes mild topical steroid creams help (1% hydrocortisone).” Discuss using a steroid cream in the eye area with your doctor. The skin in that area is sensitive.

      Best,
      @MsGreene

      Added:
  63. Manotosh Das

    Sir,
    My hand skin problem Sati Small sport. plz titman hare.

    Added:
  64. stephanie

    hi
    i am Stephanie, and i am 30 years old, and I’ve had this white patches on my back for as long as i can remember.
    i live in Nigeria and seeing a dermatologist is really expensive.
    from all you have said, i can say i have Tinea Versicolor, so am going to try out the selenium shampoo.
    kindly let me know if there are any medication i can try as well.

    its really embarrassing because i cant wear clothes that show my back.
    help please.

    Added:
  65. Ahmer

    Sir , I Would like to say that i have a child with 5 years and i have notice white patches on a small area of his lips .
    Please advise.

    Thanks

    Added:
  66. triras

    Dr
    I have white burns patches on forehead..
    It suddenly appeared one day while I walked for long time in sun.
    Is it photodermats.
    What may it be

    Added:
  67. Ola

    My son is 15 his face has gone white other wise his healthy

    Added:
  68. Dharani

    Hi,
    I have small white patches on my face these days after I have started applying some cream.Please suggest me what to do now.

    Added:
  69. Natasha

    I found the section on tinea versicolor interesting as I had this about 20 years ago when leaving in Asia. My doctor in Hong Kong noticed it during a routine visit. To treat it, I was given a cream that I had to put on my entire body, including my scalp, for three days in a row each night before I went to bed. I then washed it off in the morning. I was told that it could take up to 10 weeks to take effect, and it was pretty much exactly 10 weeks to the day before it completely disappeared. However, it has never returned. Unfortunately, I don’t know what it was called as it was many years ago, but it was an effective one-time treatment. Might be worth investigating for those of you with tinea versicolor.

    Added:
    • Anne

      What was the name of ur cream ?

      Added:
  70. Gurvinder

    My two years old grand daughter is having two white uneven spots on her right thigh.It appeared a month back.She had her vaccination and deworming medicines and after that they appeared.what it could be?I am worried.

    Added:
  71. donna

    Hello doctor I have white patches on my face and neck I’m 31 and I’m scared it is skin cancer what do you think it could be

    Added:
    • Thee.

      Hai doctor ‘ I’m 34 years male ‘ I have a problem with white small patches in my penis and 1 in top of my neck so I’m worried now ‘ coz I’m thinking it myb skin cancer or something ‘ so I need your advice and remedies

      Added:
  72. Anup

    Hello doctor,
    My daughter is 12 year old and 32kg in weight.
    She has faded patches on her both elbows and both knees since 8-10 months.
    Patches are of 1-2 inches diameter. These patches are not pure white but it is like discoloration of skin.
    A few small spots can also be seen on face and arms. There is no itching and dryness on the patches.
    which disease is this and what is the treatment. Please help.
    Thanks and regards

    Added:
  73. Aaishah Nandally

    Dear sir, I have an unusual patch above one of my eyebrow. At first it was like a white rough patch. Its been already one and a half month and it is still there. Its middle has become a bit darker than my complexion and all around it is still white but its diameter has increased..the roughness is still there. I don’t actually know how i got this whether from sun exposure or coldness as it is winter here.
    what should i do?

    Added:
  74. Lisa Adhar

    Hi Doctor,
    My daughter is on 3 months old and she have plenty white spots on here body. Please it’s getting worse help me . I went to a doctor he told me it’s a fungal infection using cream for it but it not working what can I use will it come out.
    Please I need someone help

    Added:
    • Lisa Adhar

      Orr it’s dropping her hair

      Added:
  75. deepjyoti

    Hi dr.Greene

    First of all i want to thank you for writing this post. It’s really very helpful one. It helped me a lot to know what I have. I was very confused of whats happening to me and thinking of worse case scenario but I now i think i have the second one – Tinea Versicolor. Because it happened to me earlier few times but it was limited and subsided on it’s own and mostly occurred during summer and autumn period . But this time it has spread in my entire face and also on thighs and foot and very itchy . It made me very worried.
    But now I’m very much relieved.
    Thank you dr. For helping me and all the others. You are really awesome!
    And if you don’t mind dr. Could you reply me any other diseases or that have similar symptoms to Tinea Versicolor and etching, dry, wearing off skin and patches.
    Hoping for your reply.
    Thanks! again dr.

    Added:
  76. shefali bhatia

    hy , my brother is 14 years old and he developed tiny white spots on his hands and legs he used to play in sunlight and have excessive sweating plz tell me about treatment

    Added:
  77. Sweety

    Dear Dr Greene
    My daughter is 5 months old and she developed two white lines on her inner thighs while she was 15 days old, I thought may be its because of woollen pyjamas/diaper till now the lines still exist. lately I saw a very small white patch on right side of her stomach much below the navel and near the diaper belt. It is very hot and humid weather here. Can u please advise the reason ? is it because of diapers, i switched to cotton cloth nappies today or something else ?

    Added:
  78. fatemah

    hellow DR.
    my brother have some white patches on his skin they are just small white dots on his face can u help me ?

    Added:
  79. Sandhya

    Hi dr greene ,
    I have some white spot on my legs ,I just woone know that this dieses can be happen to my child

    Added:
  80. beverly

    hi dr greene’s,

    i have some white patches in my breast and in my stomach and in my back ..i notice it when I got pregnant on my third baby., is this a birthmark or not..When I delivered by baby..the white spot becomes itchy it spread beside the spot..i just wanna know if this is a serious decease of not….can you advice me about the treatment..or maybe a home treatment…

    Added:
  81. Dee

    So very helpful and informative! Thank you Dr!

    Added:
  82. Imran Khan

    Hello dr.
    My 1 year baby got a white patch on knee and few weeks back I have noticed another white dot at the back of my baby, I m very much worried plz guide me what to do? Are these serious?

    Added:
  83. savitri

    How can we prevent this white patches problem?

    Added:
    • Hi Savitri,

      If the white patches you’re experiencing are related to sun exposure, using sunscreen before going out into the sun will help prevent them.

      Per Dr. Greene, “The involved patches don’t darken with sun exposure the way the surrounding skin does…Using sunscreen can decrease the appearance of the patches by inhibiting the skin around them from darkening…Even with no treatment at all, the spots will disappear on their own — although it may take months to years. Some people get pityriasis alba every summer during childhood. Even then, the pigmentation will eventually end up normal.”

      @MsGreene

      Added:
  84. Sam

    Hi dr greene,
    Am a dark skinned guy but lately I have been experiencing some white patches and rashes on my face. It is very itching sometime include my chest. Advice !

    Added:
  85. pam

    hi my daughter have a white patch on her around left eye (2 cm), its itchy and become bigger and bigger day by day.i apply sunscreen lotion and moisturiser cream on her face but it becomes bigger and whiter.what can i do please suggest me.

    Added:
  86. Rose Lathrop

    All these are very interesting
    But none fit the duscr I otiin of mine
    Its not a spit
    Its not a buster
    It’s not itchy it painful
    Just a little white .ile on my calf

    Added:
  87. Gillian colling

    Hi, I tried a sunbed today and a few hours after i noticed I have white patches with red spots in them on my ankles and legs. They’re not itchy I was just wondering if you knew what they were, thankyou.

    Added:
  88. Aaliya Anwaar

    Dear doctor,

    For the last 3 years,i have been developing white/red flaky patches around my hairline, around neck,nose forehead and even on the chest…

    I have already used so many creams and various tablets as prescribed by many doctors, but no use.
    Also, I have got acute problem of dandruff for the last 4 or 5 years…Is it in anyway related??

    Please help me…

    Added:
  89. Jeff

    Hello Doctor,
    Appreciate for your information posted.
    I recently found that my little baby has having big white patch starting at the bottom of her neck area and stretching till the tummy area. It looks like expanding by the time. now i daily applying hydration lotion ‘aquaphor’ two times per day, But there’s no improvement. Still looks like expanding. Hoping your advice.

    Thank you

    Added:
  90. audrey

    hi there
    i have little white spots appearing,there under my chin bad, and on my arm ,n legs ,now im noticeing more coming today on my hands ,is there anything u can sugest ,as is getting worse now

    Added:
  91. bidisha sonowal

    hey doctor.
    i am bidisha. i am 20 years.
    actually my face during summer season, i face with the problem of white patches and i have been suffering with this since i was 12 years.
    It happens only during summer but in winter my face becomes clear again.
    i dont know what to do.
    i tried natural herbs too but it didnt work at all. i just hate this.
    It makes my skin dark in some areas.
    it looks dull.
    please suggest me what should i do.?

    Added:
  92. Yakub

    Hi Doc,
    i am 22 yrs and m having this white from 4 to 5 yrs i tried every thing and dermatologist but nothing worked and all sudden i found a temporary treatment for it that a man suggested to me it is a soap (K Z soap) it works but after few years it comes m fed-up with plz u suggest something for me that should work in a permanent manner its very awful to go out with it people see us with a very weird look its embarrassing

    Added:
  93. Michael

    Dear Doc. Alan Greene,

    I am Michael and a Filipino. I need your help regarding my skin problem at my back. I have a picture but I do not know how am I be able to show it to you. It looks like the picture above but not very close to it.

    Thank you.

    Added:
  94. Grace Lauzon

    Im getting white spots on my face from the makeup or moisturizer. What ingredient is causing it or i should avoid? Thank you so much.

    Added:
  95. Girl

    I have white patch on my left chest just below the under arm. I don’t know if it is my birth mark are not. But I thought it as mole and my mother told that it is not a problem, when I am 13 years old I saw it, before that i don’t know if it is there are not. but now I am 21 years old and worried about it because I noticed that it is spreading but I didn’t get any pain or itching. Please suggest me any treatment to it. I get more worried and always thought it is some bad disease likecancer tumors.please suggest me sir….

    Added:
  96. Bridget

    Hi,
    My daughter is 9months now and every since she was about I think 5-6 months she started getting these dry rough spots on her arms and legs then they tend to turn white. What should I apply and what is causing it?

    Added:
  97. Shad

    Hi Doc,
    My baby who is 2 months old,got a big white spot on her left cheek and from last few days I noticed one more becoming visible on the right cheek. She is on breastmilk and everything else is normal.What could be the reason for that?

    Added:
  98. John Pitts

    Hi Doc,

    I started noticing small white spots all over my body about 5yrs ago. The white spots dissipate when touched, I was told that it might be do to poor blood circulation. I’ve seen multiple dermatologists and my family doctor and neither can give me an definite explanation. Can you please tell me what this might be caused by?

    Added:
  99. Richard

    Hi Doc,
    I’m 32y/o just experiencing white spot in my skin (hands) what will be the cause of this? i just got this 3months back up to now please advice.
    thanks for your help,
    Richard

    Added:
  100. Vishu

    Hi Doc,

    I am 28 years old male. Of late I am seeing a white dry patch on my private part which seems to be spreading. It is non itchy and doesn’t pain. Please suggest with the suitable cream or medicine.

    Thank you,
    Vishu

    Added:
  101. Nicole

    Hi I have had crawling feeling which is more apparent in heat over scalp which has led to dry hair which turned white at age of 10. I am now 31 and have dry skin which too have white spots occurring. I’m crazy itchy all over but it feels like a bug crawling feeling. I have four children in which one already appears to have the same as me at age 1. I feel like I shouldn’t of had any children. The crawling feeling however is driving me insane. I’ve been to dermatologist and they just say the itching is dry skin. They run a few blood tests like iron and antibodies but all appears normal. I just want to know what this is so I can deal with this and try and manage. I don’t mind having tests done, or being a ginneu pig I just want to get to the bottom of this. My family has no history of my condition.

    Added:
  102. SHARADA

    I AM A WOMEN OF 5 CHILDREN, MY HUSBAND HAD WHITE SCAR MARKS ON HIS NECK , AFTER SOME MONTHS I FOUND THE SAME MARKS ON MY NECK, CHEST, FACE AND ON MY SCALP.
    THE SCAR MARKS APPEAR MORE AND SPREADS WHEN WINTER BEGINS AND IT BECOMES MORE WHEN I COME IN CONTACT WITH SCENT , ITCHING HAPPENS (SMALL AND ROUND SHAPE WHITE MARKS ON CHEST, NECK, , I AM A MIDDLE CLASS WOMEN PLZ HELP OUT TO GET RID OF THE PROBLEM

    Added:
  103. Patrick Thann

    My son, 4 years old boy gets whitish patched on his lower thighs, hips and arms area. As far as I know, mother provides him clean clothes and bed sheets. I would like to know the causes and treatment of this whitish patches.

    Added:
  104. Saima

    Thanku Doctor :) Very useful

    Added:
  105. shankar hange

    Sir,

    I have white patch on left side of chest. Please help with any curable medicine or cream.

    Thank you.

    Added:
  106. Pooja

    My son is three year old. I am watching for some time, white spot. It is small after six month, then bigger. I am worried about my son’s white patch. What should I use for treatment? Please tell me.

    Added:
  107. Kristine Chumacera

    i observe some dry white patches in both arms after our summer vacation last May. its about 12 – 20 in number… the diameter is about 1.27 to 2.54cm.. sometimes its itchy when its dry. there are also tiny rashes in it. i don’t know what kind of skin impurities i have right now.. i hope you can help me with my problem…

    Added:
  108. caroline

    Hi Doc
    My daughter is 3 months old and she was born in Russia during summer.when she turned a month old,she started developing white patches on both her cheeks and chin,the patches later developed on her forehead.we have moved to africa and her the white patches on her face have become large and her face is clearing up giving her a light complexion on her face,neck and every part of her body where she has joints while the rest of her body is dark.I have noticed alot of white patches which have developed again on her back.I am really worried and confused.please advice on what is the cause.
    Thank you.

    Added:
  109. rayan

    I having small white patch, but only in winter. They will gone at summer. What should I do? It only seen to my cheeks.

    Added:
  110. kanza zafar

    i am 15 years old and i am having a white spot on my cheek just beside lips. it is only one in no. the other problem is that i m having some patches on my upper thigh. they are some distance apart. and lighter in colour. i have earlier went to skin doctor, when i was young nearly 7 or 8 yrs.he prescribed me some tubes but they are of no use.
    can u please help me by telling whats the problem with my skin. please, i will be highly obliged.

    Added:
  111. Dark

    I recently have noticed small little skin discolorations that RANDOMLY appear on my arms. I also have been getting VERY VERY dry skin on my face. Could you at least give me a symptom? Or some advice what creams I should me using. I have to shave every other day for my job, but that seems to cause an issue on my face. ( am more worried about my face though. Please help.

    Added:
  112. ayesha faizan

    Hi doc I am 26 years old .I have white spots on my face (head and eyes) and on my chest and legs I m very worried about it my doctor suggests me some ointments and it doesn’t work plz tell me what is the eqtual cause of these spots . and plz tell me that are all these spots are turn to normal skin or not???

    Added:
  113. Moataz

    My daughter is 3 years old, in summer we spent many days on the beach. since then, 2 months passed and the brown tane has not faded, but we are seeing white patches on her face. you think it’s normal, or it might be nutritional deficiency? keeping in mind she is not getting balance nutrition.

    Added:
  114. Tejas

    Dear Sir. I have 3 months baby, on his neck and joint places especially where the skin get fold white color patch it is becoming and spreading so what’s the problem and solution for it. Plz do suggest some advice.

    Added:
  115. Amanda

    This Article was very helpful, as I have dealt with this same issue myself having white spots on the upper part of my chest as well as the upper part of my back for about 5 or 6 years now I deal with it every summer I’m 27 now and it still makes me self conscious about wearing certain items because of all the spots all over my back. I had a dermatologist give me the name of another shampoo to use one time and I tried that but it made my skin feel like an alligator it became dry, painful to touch, and very scaly. So you can assume I stopped using that. I’m now going to see if this shampoo will help me at all. Do you have any recommendations for horrible eczema on legs. I get shots in my bottom to relieve the itch and pain but they don’t last forever. If anyone has any suggestions for that I would greatly appreciate that!!! I have tried just about everything for my legs but eczema is no joke and is not fun in the least bit. Thanks so much!

    Added:
  116. yeye

    My daughter have white patches on her face we went to dermatologist ang she gave her hydrocortisone and cetaphil moisturizer after a week of treatment no changes at all. We went again for another checked up the doctor gave her 2 dosage of duflocan and elidel cream to be applied for 1 month..We’re nearly finished the said dosage but there’s still no changes on her face. She’s having low self esteem because of her face. What could it be? I hope you enlighten me with her situation. She’s 12 yrs old. thank you so much!

    Added:
  117. goody

    I am 60 years old. I have a flaky patch on my cheek. It has turned pink. What can I do? I have tried moisturizer, but it doesn’t help. Can you please tell me what to do.? Thank you.

    Added:
    • It’s time to see a dermatologist. He or she will determine the cause of the flaky patch before suggesting treatment.

      Added:
  118. Ann

    7mths ago my skin started to break out in red rash like measles with patches all over my body and very itchy now its white spots an itchy all over my body. Been to many doctors waiting to do Algiers test.

    Added:
  119. jill

    My daughter has tinea veriscolour every year. She is 13. When she gets it, I get medicine, it disappears within a week. Now it/s still there. Any advice?

    Added:
  120. Hiral joshi

    I have seen problem on my face. There are two little white dots on both sides of lips. I can’t understand what is this? Please give me solution. Is this something dangerous? I am worried about this. Please give me suggestions.

    Added:
  121. Sheri Anderson

    Hello Dr. Greene,
    I have white spots all over my body. I went to a doctor that put me under a black light and my I had white spots on my whole entire body that were glowing white. I heard that if the spots were yellow that would be an indication of fungus, could this still be Tinea Vesicolor?

    Added:
    • Abdul ghaffar

      Dr .good morning. I have white pathes on my palm &legs since 2 years .I M visiting dermatologist but null&void.kindly suggest me.Dr

      Added:
  122. Sheri Anderson

    I have white spots all over my body, I went to Homepathic Doctor and under a black light the spots were just glowing white in almost my entire body. Could this be Tinea Vesicolor?

    Added:
  123. Mike

    I’ve been diagnosed with Tinea Veriscolor. Prescribed Econazole nitrate 1% cream. Now I notice on my face I get white spots on each cheek. Is it due to the cream causing this? Its a different color than my normal skin. In the sun it turns red. My question is the cream causing it t do this? Or is it something else I have. I have Tinea Veriscolor on my neck, back. that is under control, just my face. Not sure if its the same thing.

    Thanks

    Added:
  124. sheetal

    My 11 months daughter have 1 cm white patch on her knee, but it came 5 months after her birth. Dr. said that it will increase as her knee will grow. We don’t understand reason ? Plzzzz… give kind advice…..

    Added:
  125. sak

    Hi doctor, My 3 year old is having bilateral white patches of 2 inches on her thighs. Skin appears to be dry compared to other parts. No other symptoms. Will the size increase or will it resolve by moisturizing?

    Added:
  126. Genesis

    So I recently got this small white spot under my check around my jawline and I’m very worried it’s just smooth but a bit itchy but not soooo itchy and I wanted to know if it’ll go away on its own I never had this. I just turned 15 and I really want it to go away I’ve had it since the 2nd week of August

    Added:
  127. Boy

    Doctor i notice that my face have a white spot and it is so itching and it begin to spread but the colour is not so much white almost same as the normal skin and the hair growing within the white spot is also not white And doctor in the earlier time i show prescribe me to use miconazole nitrate gel and it cure me but this time i dont go to the doctor and use it but it does not work what shell i do doctor plese help me as soon as possible.

    Added:
  128. Kaveeta Khatri

    Hello Doctor
    I am 22 years old. From few months I am noticing white spots around my neck and also on back. I shared this problem to a dermatologist, and he said its just because of hot weather, but these spots are increasing after using the Conaz lotion suggested by the doctor, but after using this lotion these spots are increasing. Doctor suggested me to use it 3 times in week. I did that, but the result is not what I wanted. Even after using the lotion itching starts on my back. I am very much worried about it doctor please help me out.

    Added:
  129. M.A.

    Found the white patches on skin in children, a useful article.

    Added:
  130. sasha.

    Wht abt the one ringworm patches. , wht will I use. To clear it cos it making me so. Ugly on my. Face and my bottom.. Am so shyn

    Added:
  131. Ashley

    After reading this article, I wanted to add one more cause of white spots on the skin. It is by no means common, but it is, I think, important to mention. My son has a disease called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex. His first symptom was a two inch long white patch on his leg. As he got older, he developed several more, plus tiny ones all over. We were told it was vitiligo when he was two. At ten, he was finally diagnosed with TSC. The spots are called ash leaf macules, and they are one of several skin manifestations of the disease. I just want to make other commenters aware that this is another alternative, especially if they won’t go away. Not many doctors are familar with TSC. It causes benign tunmors to grow in all of the body’s organs, especially the brain and kidneys. My son’s dermatologist diagnosed him by some red bumps on his face (facial tumors called angiofibromas) and by the ash leaf macules. If a wood’s lamp is shined on the skin, they will appear all over the body. Just please, be aware of this everyone. Thanks!

    Added:
    • Thank you for adding to the discussion. Much appreciated.

      Added:
    • Ken

      Well I only had these clear shin color bumps on the top of my hands.for years when I lived in Florida they would get bigger and wite in the Sun.and if I wasn’t in the Sun they would turn clear or skin color .well 10 year later I had them still.shell I noticed one on my tattoo .one day. After being in the Sun it stood out so I but it off .it was waxy.well 10 yrs latter I have them on the outside of my th foot lots in just a patch.now also this week here and there on rt leg .and left leg a bunch petty close but all up my leg .and still on hands.the some time itch .I use to just scrap the of if I noticed it.with my nails.and now there also spreading on my arms .which get white in the Sun.
      The Dr’s at 4 different hospitals said I have fybormyalga.it sucks and I fell 40 ft a few yrs ago I have nerve damage crushed disk .I am on gabapenton and closyerol meds and blud pressure cloadine.and my adhd meds .which I have been on 3 weeks. Which mite be when it gotten worse.maybe?.some times they itch .spreading .
      Do you have any ideas.the Dr felt my hand and said warts.out vinager on them..I have twice or more a day for two weeks it’s worse please help.kn

      Added:
      • Ken

        I forgot my kidneys been hurting and liver and under rt side of ribs.galblader is off and on sometimes do day a I’m 45

        Added:
  132. Veronica

    Ty great info!

    Added:
  133. Angela

    Could the white spot start pinkish? I notice my 11 yr old son start with red spots in the summer and then turn into white spots. The spots are extremely dry. It’s on his face. Is it okay to apply sunblock over the dry spots? Thank you.

    Added:
  134. Anna pinto

    I hav a white patches on my chest areas it look very dirty wen I wear low neck top is there medicine to avoid these patches plz help

    Added:
  135. Ajay kumar dahiya

    Dr.Greene, my son’s9year.use white patches h.nack,chin and lips. 2years ago.please let me know treatment, Thanks

    Added:
  136. Muhammad Mahim

    I have a small white mark in my face , I saw it 5 month ago and I use a cream for pimples there , it is the cause of used that cream , the cream name is Reetor-HC . Give me a solution please.

    Added:
    • zahra

      i have exactly the same problem did you find a solution?

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  137. Tahir Malik

    Sir
    My sister have white patches on her face for a long period of time and her age is about 30 years . She should want to cosmatic sergery now. Sir if her face is completely recover from white patch then ok if no so what is better for her..

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  138. Ruth

    Dr Alan Greene, could you please recommend some Anti fungal creams drugs for my 2yrs old baby, that will help and heal the pink patches on my baby face and head.

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  139. zhun

    My white patches are in my arms and near in my elbows. It becomes more dry when I’m in an air conditioned room. It becomes so dry when I’m in cool place and also when I’m sweaty it more become whitish. Can you help me? It’s not exactly like tinea versicolor — small spots made of dry skin.

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  140. Angelica

    Thank you so much! I was at a beach earlier, trying to get my summer tan on when I noticed weird patches and blobs of pale skin on my upper arms and thighs. Thank god I read this article. Now I’m just heading out to purchase aquaphor, sunscreen and cetaphill :)

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    • Ruma Chowdhury

      Sir

      My daughter is 5 years.white patches in her chest and check.Please help me white it can be.I am very afraid.

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  141. Mou

    hi, my baby is 4 months. He suffered from fungal infection and it was reddish. I used antifungal cream. But now i am looking that there is a very samll white pale on the right side of his face. What it can be. I am very afraid.

    Added:
    • Uttam Biswas

      I have white spot on my skin. What I need to do for this.

      Added:
  142. venessa

    Hi doctor,

    I have been getting this patches since 17 years old. I’m now 36 and still getting it occasionally. I just use the selenium sulphite shampoo called Selsun Blue it really works wonderfully.

    Venessa

    Added:
    • Jenelia

      Hi venessa,
      I guess even I face the same trouble as you. It started during my teenage and till date, I m affected by these spots in summer when I m exposed to sun, They get itchy and ultimately leaving white uneven patches that turn black eventually with time. So just wanted to ask u regarding the selsun blue shampoo, Will it help? And how to use it? i searched online for the product, there are many available, Can u send me the link for the same? Kindly help. Thank u.

      Added:
  143. praveen

    I am 16 years old i had white spots on my total body iam feeling very irritating with those white spots please give me a suggestion to cure my disease

    Thank u

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  144. khushbu kumari

    Dr my mom age is 55yrs and she has gt white paches on her hands she s very fair but these patchrs are causing itching sensation on her hands need some valuable suggestions with any ointment name please

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  145. Rakshith

    Hi, I am 16 years old and have small white patches on my hands. How to cure my problems? Please give solution for this problem?

    Added:
    • Angelica

      Try moisturizers and sunscreen such as aquaphor or cetaphill

      Added:
  146. DIANA

    I have a son that is 12 years old. He has white spots that are all over his hip and down. I have tried so many thing that the doctor has given, but it is going everywhere. What should I do?

    Added:
  147. Navjinder kaur

    Hi Dr Greene,

    My baby is 3 months old and he is having white patches on his face. It’ss quite big round on his cheek. My GP said it looks like fungal infection, so she told me to use sorblene cream, but it makes baby’s skin worse. Can you please suggest what should I do? Thanks.

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  148. Robert W.

    I believe I have had the fungal infection since high school Junior year. I remember it started on my stomach because it would itch. I never though about it until more recently. It it on my whole abdominal area and wraps around to my back (not sure to what extent). My upper arms also have it where my deltoids are. I have tried the oral medication. It seemed to work well, but I was never able to finish them for the whole period and the patches reoccurred. I really don’t have the time or money to rub tiny bottles of foot cream all over me. I am wondering if the selenium shampoo would work, and what percentage should I look for? Any recommendations?

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  149. saksham

    fantastic thought

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  150. Jyoti

    My daughter is 14 years old. She has a white spot on her face and her skin is very dry. What lotion or cream we should apply? Please let us know.

    Added:
    • Jyoti – At 14 years old, and in May, there are a couple of different common causes of white spots on the face, with a couple of different best lotions or creams. A quick visit with a doc should help you narrow it down.

      Added:
    • Muntaha

      Dr I am 13 years old and I have white dry spots on my face mostly around my mouth I. Have irritation my face with these spots.. Please tell me what is this?

      Added:
  151. riddhi

    My 1.5 month baby has one big white patch on his right hand. I’m really worried what would be the reason for this. It’s just one big patch on hand — nowhere else. Please reply.

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  152. Jacobie

    Despite burns that I get on my pasty white complexion, I love golfing in the summer, and i found that sunscreen left my hands greasy and really affected my grip. I soon just stopped putting sunscreen on all together, and now i have a strange white spot on the back of my neck. What do you think that my skin problem is?

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  153. Jay kumar Tailor

    Suggests medicine for this please. Out of discussion.

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  154. Ekta sharma

    My son is turning 11 years old. He had white spot on his legs and ankles, knee, elbow and eye. Now they are coming to . Nothing working can you tell me what should I do?

    Added:
  155. Ramesh Ramavath

    Hi,

    My Son having the skin problem. that is red spot on face & elbows after that it is converting to white spots. pls suggest why it is coming.

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  156. Farzana

    Hi Doc, I visit California (Palmdale) from Houston with my grand daughter. She was premie. Now is 16 months. 2day before she had runny nose, whole face started red with red rashes spot on her face, whole night she couldn’t sleep properly. She was touching both her ears too. Might be ear ache or energy to change the weather or place. This was the second visit. I show the doctor next day — said viral infection. This was yesterday. I’m giving her Tylenol. Today I was giving her shower. I saw on her one side of hip there is a big white cloudy mark. I want to know what is this?

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  157. meenu

    hello
    I have this white rough patch on my cheek for about a week. But yesterday it got dark and the skin also on my upper lip and chin is kinda patchy and darker than my normal skin tone. What should I do?

    I had sun exposure 2 or 3 days back, but I was wearing spf 30 sunscreen.

    Added:
    • prince

      You have to stop using the spf30 sunscreen. It might happen it’s the one causing the skin infection in different phases. Try to avoid the sun and stay indoors or avoid being in the sun for best results.

      Added:
    • vijay

      I have white spots on my face they do not even tan. I have tried some medicines but they didn’t work for long.

      Added:
  158. Urmila

    Dear Dr Greene,

    Having seen doctors 5-6 times now I am worried as my daughter has had this skin condition for couple of months now and it does not seem to get any better despite using the ointments prescribed to her.

    Can you help me understand what she might be suffering from? I am concerned as nothing seems to work and her skin can get very itchy and scaly too.

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  159. Rochelle

    My daughter is 7 and has developed white patches with brown spots in the centre. It started as a rash that looked like a ringworm on her her face. It is now spreading to her neck and arms. She has been on penicillin and other antibiotics but nothing worked. What can I do. No one in my family has ever had skin problems.

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  160. Martha

    My son is 18 and has had this white patches on his face for a couple of years already. Nothing seems to work but, show more when he’s out in the sun?

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  161. Yolanda

    Hi, I have a big white circle around my eye .. I’ve had it for almost 3 years =\ I desperately need help!

    Added:
    • Ryan

      Same here! The rest of my face gets tanned and that round patch around my eye becomes even more visible. I am 14 and brown skinned living in the UK. I need help..

      Added:
  162. amiel

    I have then dry white spots on my back and it always itches sometimes in the summer. I go swimming a lot, but also I wash my face in the morning and about a minute later dry white spots came around my lower cheeks around my mouth.

    Added:
    • Jonathan Stewart

      You could be allergic to one of the ingredients in the face wash

      Added:
  163. Swati

    Hello Dr. My 2 month baby is having white spot on her legs and a small patch on tummy. After the birth we did not noticed it. Now, after 1 and 1/2 months, we have noticed it. What we should do? Is this something serious?

    Thanks,
    Swati

    Added:
  164. Jessica

    Hello. So, My arms are starting to show white spots. However, they’re not scaly, or dry. Actually, it’s more in the complection of the arm. I have an olive skin tone, but the arms have small white patches appearing. Is this something I need to be concerned about?

    Added:
    • Malkum

      I’m getting those spots too the hot showers are causing it. I was showering once and a blister just popped up on my feet from out of no where. I’m sure it can be the toxins in the water too which I’m afraid of.

      Added:
  165. Ashwini

    I’m 23 years old. I have white patches on my face.

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    • punitha

      Am 25 years old .I have white patches on cheeks during winter season.

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  166. kelson jansen

    using lotrimin ultra antifungle and showering with medicated selsun blue, still not going away

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  167. lil

    I am 35 years old I have skin fungus about twice a year. It stays with me like 30 days. I am going to different doctors, but still I live with it. Please doctor, I want to know how to protect my skin. Thanks.

    Added:
    • col

      Hi Guys,
      If it’s funghal, consider using organic apple cider vinegar. I use organic to avoid anything chemical based. Simply soak cotton wool in the vinegar, and apply it several times a day over the spots, letting the vinegar soak into the affected skin. I even applied some to a plaster and stuck it over the worst. over a week they stopped growing and after a few weeks the skin was back to normal. This was a fungal condition in my case, the circles where the exact pattern you seen in a laboratory when they grow spores in a slide!

      Added:
  168. Ark

    Some white patches have developed between scrotum and thigh joint on my skin. Is it really a reason of concern or is it a infection?

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  169. Ark

    White patches have developed between scrotum and thigh joint. Is it a reason of concern or is it a simple infection? Please help me, doctor?

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  170. shivani

    My daughter (7years of age) has white spots on her arms and legs. She has been to several doctors, of course diagnosed with different things and given different medications. A doctor even said she had early stages of vitiligo, but her blood tests came back normal. I am at a loss now.

    Added:
  171. dimple

    Hello doctor. My name is Dimple and I have two children – boys, 9 and 10 years old. My 9 year has white patches on his face. What can I do?

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  172. divij

    Hello doctor,
    My name is Divij Madan. I am 12. I have a lot of white patches on my face since i was 11.
    Some people say that it is because of excessive swimming.

    Some people say that I have because of deficiency of vitamin D but i drink at least 2 glasses of milk for vitamin-D a day.
    Can you suggest why I have these white patches and the treatment to fix them.

    Thank you

    Added:
  173. Mohit Jain

    Hello DOctor,

    I am 30 years of age. I am having Psoriasis marks on my scalp, legs, back. Please advise me on it.

    Regards

    Mohit

    Added:
  174. kay

    My daughter is 8 yrs old and has white patches on her thighs and hips, i live in a tropical climate. Is there any advice you can give me? The spots were a few but now there are soooo many on her now. It doesnt itch and the spots are not scaly or lifted up from the surface of her skins.

    Added:
  175. Neha

    Hi,

    I am 26 years old, I have got these white patches in my chin and neck area from 6 months, I had been to a coastal area where I was exposed to extreme heat. I guess It started after coming back from there.

    I had rashes and itching in the beginning for a day and then slowly these white patches arose. Please let me know what I can do to get rid of it as it look so bad on my face.
    Thanks.

    Added:
  176. Nadia

    Hi doc my problem is we live in Dubai and I have ason of 16 years old he has been playing in the sun during his break he plays basketball and now I can see small patches of white /beige patches on his face and I’m really worried what this is pls help me with your great experience thank you

    Added:
  177. rhys

    Hey , im 18 and i have started to notice tinea versicolor on a small area of my neck , i am always exposed to sun as i surf nearly everyday but this has never occurred before , is this just a random skin infection or will it keep on occurring ??
    Thanks

    Added:
    • talal

      yes

      Added:
  178. An

    Hi – my daughter is 21 months old, and recently (last few months) Iv noticed a lighter patch on her thigh, about 6cm long (it may be more noticeable as its been summer and she is more tanned than normal) I am very concerned it is vitiligo, as there does seem to be another small patch on her opposite leg, but its also not VERY white, looks more like a faded tan. There is no history in our family of vitiligo. Any ideas would be appreciated!

    Added:
  179. An

    Hi – my daughter is 21 months old, and recently (last few months) Iv noticed a lighter patch on her thigh, about 6cm long (it may be more noticeable as its been summer and she is more tanned than normal) I am very concerned it is vitiligo, as there does seem to be another small patch on her opposite leg, but its also not VERY white, looks more like a faded tan. There is no history in our family of vitiligo. Any ideas would be appreciated!

    Added:
  180. PENGUiiN

    i love you

    Added:
  181. Alyssa Breeding

    hello,
    this is my 2 year old son…hes had these white patches for a couple of months and they seem to be spreading…it started on a small part by his neck and now they go down his arms and in random places on his back…any ideal if it could be in the article above??

    Added:
  182. Alan Greene

    Hi Natalie. Lamasil is usually very effective for fungal infections. If it’s not doing the trick, I’m a fan of seeing a dermatologist to be sure you know what you are dealing with.

    Added:
  183. Barbara Hewins

    I am a 61 year young female who has always had beautiful skin all my life. Fortunately, never had acne. Well, about 9 months ago I noticed that these little small dry-achy spots appeared on my eyelids, around my mouth, some on my chin, and neck. Well, I panicked because I have always looked so much younger than my age, but these spots had me thinking it was eczema (which I’ve always had in my scalp only), or even skin cancer. I went to a medical doctor that prescribed Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream. It immediately stopped the itching…but…when the white patches went away, this darkish blue discoloration appeared in it’s place. By then I was extremely depressed!!! I am a very fair-skin Black woman, and a former Model, now a Modeling Coach…I need great skin!…but now I have this discoloration on my face where ever the patches were; almost looking like I have a five o’clock shadow. And makeup does not cover it! Well, I dealt with the discoloration for 9 months because I could see it trying to fade away slightly, but within the last 2 weeks, here comes the while dry patches again!!! And it’s getting bigger and bigger (started out the size of a Tic-Tac)!! I called the pharmaceutical company about the cream, but they said they never had anyone call with my complaint. When I came on Google and researched my problem, they gave me the assumption that it may be a yeast infection! Okay…I can stop eating sugar, potatoes, dairy, etc. But I’m still so confused because I keep my face washed and moisturized daily! I have to because it’s part of my business. I’m am so lost at this moment and feeling like shutting myself in the house forever!!! I’m very serious…I need some help!…:-(((((

    Added:
    • Alan Greene

      How frustrating, Barbara! Yeast infections can cause white spots. Dietary changes might make these less likely to start, but once a yeast infection is going strong an anti-yeast cream can be much quicker at making it go away. Triamcinolone is not an anti-yeast cream, btw.

      With skin problems that aren’t getting better as hoped or expected, I’m a fan of seeing a dermatologist (skin specialist).

      Added:
  184. jerry cole

    Hi my name is jerry im 20 years old and have white spots all over my arms and a little on my neck it looks alot like the picture….what can I take or do to make them eventually go away?

    Added:
    • Alan Greene

      Jerry, tinea versicolor, described in the article above, can look like the spots in your picture. Tinea versicolor is treated with anti-fungal medications. Seeing a dermatologist can help make it clear what’s causing your spots.

      Added:

Comments are closed.