What causes white patches on a child's face?

Generally, patches of white skin on a child's face may be caused by uneven sun exposure, nutritional imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, pityriasis alba, the recovery phase of eczema, and other related factors. Prompt medical consultation is necessary, and treatment should follow medical advice. Details are as follows:

1. Uneven Sun Exposure: If children spend prolonged time under the sun without proper sun protection, ultraviolet rays may cause sunburn or uneven pigmentation, resulting in patchy white areas on the skin. Prolonged direct sun exposure should be avoided, especially at midday. Use sunscreen when outdoors, and wear sun hats and sunglasses.

2. Nutritional Imbalance: Picky eating habits in children may lead to nutritional imbalances, particularly deficiencies in B vitamins and vitamin C, which are crucial for skin health. Deficiencies may cause uneven skin pigmentation. The diet should be adjusted to include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other vitamin-rich foods.

3. Vitamin Deficiency: Severe vitamin deficiencies in children, especially of vitamin B12 and folic acid, may lead to uneven skin pigmentation and patchy white areas. These deficiencies may also be accompanied by anemia. Treatment should follow medical guidance, using medications such as vitamin E soft capsules, vitamin D chewable tablets, and vitamin A tablets to supplement vitamins.

4. Pityriasis Alba: This is a common skin condition in children, associated with dry skin, vitamin deficiency, and sun exposure. It is characterized by round or oval patches of reduced pigmentation, possibly covered with scales, and may also be accompanied by mild itching. Treatment should follow medical advice, using medications such as tacrolimus ointment, urea ointment, and calamine lotion for anti-inflammatory purposes.

5. Recovery Phase of Eczema: During eczema flare-ups, allergic reactions can irritate the skin. After the skin lesions heal, localized depigmentation may occur, resulting in patches of white or yellowish skin. Red patches may also appear during eczema flare-ups. Under medical guidance, medications such as hydrocortisone cream, compound dexamethasone cream, and triamcinolone chloramphenicol solution should be used for treatment.

During treatment, medications should be used as directed by a physician, and daily care and monitoring should be strengthened to promote the child's skin health.

References:

1. Wang Weiping, Sun Kun, Chang Liwen. Pediatrics [M]. 9th Edition. Beijing: People's Medical Publishing House, 2018.

2. Zhang Xuejun. Dermatology and Venereology [M]. 9th Edition. Beijing: People's Medical Publishing House, 2018.