Expert: Michael S. Fisher, <B>Ph.D., M.D.</B> - 11/7/2009

Question
Hello, I`m 21 year old African American Female. It wasn`t until my Mom pointed out the fact that my skin was becoming blothcy until I started doing research. I have never had any skin conditions, In fact I have always been told That I have beautiful skin and a complexion. These spots that has appeared on my face out of no where came about 2-3 weeks ago. They are not milky white like the disease vitiligo. the are just a couple shades lighter than my normal tone. they are on the side of my face no where near eyes or mouth. I went to my doctor and she told me it might be vitiligo. I told her I didn`t think so and presented my research, she then quickly agreeded that another condition could be the problem. Also I had a ring worm on my left arm that has been untreated for almost 6 months. Is it possible that it spreaded to my face? It wasn`t a Nasty bigh ring worm, it was small and dry, and after being untreated turned light. I also battle yeast and bacterial infections a lot. No one in my family has a history of vitiligo. Because of my insurance cover my answers go unaswered, since a lot of dermatologist don`t accept my kind of insurance. Can you please give me an Idea of what going on??

Answer
You may have a skin condition called Pityriasis Alba.  This condition is caused by irritation of the skin with resulting downregulation of pigment.  Treatment is with moisturizers like Cerave and mild anti-inflammatory topical prescription medications like Promiseb.