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What causes a white patch on my lip?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had this patch of skin above my top lip for the past couple of weeks. It has not worsened or disappeared. It is white and dries out. I have been putting on ointments but nothing seems to improve it. It does not have bumps.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Kakkar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sushil Kakkar is an experienced Dermatologist specializing in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy. He has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, as well as sexually transmitted infections and leprosy-related skin disorders. Dr. Kakkar is skilled in clinical diagnosis, advanced dermatological procedures, and personalized treatment plans. He is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care for long-term skin health and overall well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It seems like pityriasis alba, which is patchy post inflammatory hypopigmentation, usually on the face, in those who have dry skin or are atopic. I suggest you use Tacrolimus 0.03 % ointment, twice daily. Rub it in.

  1. Do you use a moisturizer on your face?
  2. How do you wash your face?
  3. Do you have any allergies?

Revert with answer.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I do wash my face, put moisturizer on. I have no known allergies. I do have Triamcinolone acetonide cream, 0.1 %. I was using it which does help a little but I would put it on during bedtime.

Do you think that would work for it?

Please guide.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Kakkar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sushil Kakkar is an experienced Dermatologist specializing in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy. He has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, as well as sexually transmitted infections and leprosy-related skin disorders. Dr. Kakkar is skilled in clinical diagnosis, advanced dermatological procedures, and personalized treatment plans. He is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care for long-term skin health and overall well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Another possibility is that it could be a pre-vitiligo patch. In any case, Triamcinolone acetonide would work. Dilute it 1:1 with Vaseline and put it every night for 6 to 8 weeks.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Kakkar
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 5, 2019
Reviewed At March 6, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sushil Kakkar is an experienced Dermatologist specializing in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy. He has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, as well as sexually transmitted infections and leprosy-related skin disorders. Dr. Kakkar is skilled in clinical diagnosis, advanced dermatological procedures, and personalized treatment plans. He is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care for long-term skin health and overall well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sushil Kakkar is an experienced Dermatologist specializing in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy. He has expertise in treating a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, as well as sexually transmitted infections and leprosy-related skin disorders. Dr. Kakkar is skilled in clinical diagnosis, advanced dermatological procedures, and personalized treatment plans. He is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care for long-term skin health and overall well-being.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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