Does pityriasis rosea cause white patches on the face?

Question

Hi doctor,

For the past week, I have had small white patches on my face and red patches on my neck. It is increasing day by day. I recently ate papaya (but I used to take it every year, seasonally). I started using a facial moisturizer after a six to eight-month gap. But I did not get any issues previously (last two years).

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

But there are no attached photographs in your message. Kindly send a picture of the affected area to assess the condition and suggest the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen the pictures (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). It seems you have a condition known as pityriasis rosea. This condition is usually self-limiting and subsides within six to eight weeks. Sometimes it can leave some pigmentation behind. Common sites are the trunk and extremities but sometimes can involve the face too. The exact cause is unknown but can be followed by a preceding upper respiratory infection in a few cases.

I suggest you take the following medications for two weeks and then follow back:

Momente (Mometasone) cream, apply twice a day.
Cetaphil moisturizing cream (Glycerin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Ceteareth-20) is applied twice a day five minutes after the first cream.
Tablet Fexofenadine 180 mg once a day after meals.

I hope this was helpful.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You can use the suggested medication for 10 to 15 days and, if not better, can see a local dermatologist in person.

For pigmentation, early treatment is important, along with sun protection. So start the creams and avoid too much sun if not too much. This condition is not related to diet or occupation, except sun exposure, which might contribute to post-inflammatory pigmentation. You can use sunscreen before stepping out in the sun. Please do not try any home remedies like neem or turmeric. Use the prescribed medication, You should be fine with it.

I hope this was helpful.