There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
From the Research
Management of Pityriasis Alba
The management of pityriasis alba involves a combination of treatments to alleviate symptoms and promote remission. Some key points to consider include:
- The use of emollients and mild topical corticosteroids to accelerate repigmentation, although their efficacy is limited 1
- The application of topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as pimecrolimus cream 1%, which has anti-inflammatory properties and lacks the cutaneous side-effects associated with steroids 2
- Patient education on proper skin care and hygiene, including the use of lubricants and emollients, to help alleviate risk factors such as poor cutaneous hydration 3
- The potential use of combination therapies, such as a cream containing coal tar, diiodohydroxyquinolin, and hydrocortisone, which has shown acceptable results in a double-blind trial 4
Treatment Duration
The duration of treatment for pityriasis alba can vary, but some studies suggest that:
- Treatment with pimecrolimus cream 1% can lead to significant improvements in disease severity and uneven skin color within 12 weeks 2
- Lesions can normally resolve within months to years without intervention 1
- Treatment with a combination of coal tar, diiodohydroxyquinolin, and hydrocortisone can lead to significant improvements within one month 4
Considerations
When managing pityriasis alba, it is essential to consider the following:
- The condition often coexists with atopic dermatitis and is considered one of its milder forms 5
- Sun exposure can exacerbate the contrast between normal and lesional skin, making lesions more visible and patients more likely to seek medical attention 3
- Patient education and proper skin care can play a crucial role in promoting remission or resolution 3