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I have spots of white powder like substance on my head. What is it?

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I have spots of white powder like substance on my head. What is it?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At March 15, 2017
Reviewed AtJune 27, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

On my head, some four to five spots of white powder-like substance are forming. Initially, I had it only on two spots but now it became five spots. If it is dandruff entire head part will occur but mine is different. I have lost some hair on the surrounding affected spots. Please tell me what has happened. What treatment do I have to take? Kindly suggest.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Please send the good quality photographs of the lesion and also please tell me if there is any burning or itching? Let me know if any other areas are affected like elbow and knee? Looking forward for your response in order to help you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I actually consulted an RMP doctor. He gave Cloben G ointment for that. I have been applying it for a month. It had clearly gone but whenever I stop using ointment it starts again. Then the doctor gave me Zole-F ointment but this ointment did not suit me I guess. From yesterday onwards the position on my head is like in the photographs. And also I have been suffering from itching too. I have the same below my ribs and also on my stomach. I have applied the ointment on them also as seen in the other two photographs. Please help.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I would suggest you not apply that cream as it contains super potent steroids and can permanently damage your skin. The photographs (attachment removed to protect patient identity) on the trunk are not clear so unable to comment on anything. Regarding the scalp, you are suffering from seborrheic capitis or sebopsoriasis (scalp psoriasis). Sometimes fungal etiology is there. Otherwise, the cause is idiopathic. I would prescribe you use Sebowash (Fluocinolone) shampoo twice weekly. It has to be applied on the scalp and left for 15 minutes before you wash. Take tablet Nizoral (Ketoconazole) 200 mg, once daily for 28 days.

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

Dr. Atishay Bukharia
Dr. Atishay Bukharia

Dermatology

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