From the Research
Hypopigmentation during the healing phase of pityriasis rosea is a normal occurrence that typically resolves on its own within several months, and no specific treatment is needed as it will gradually return to normal skin color with time 1.
Key Points
- Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation happens as the characteristic salmon-colored, scaly patches of pityriasis rosea fade, leaving behind lighter areas of skin, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Patients should protect the affected areas from sun exposure using broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to prevent the hypopigmented areas from becoming more noticeable, as these areas can burn more easily and may take longer to return to normal pigmentation if sunburned.
- The hypopigmentation occurs because the inflammatory process of pityriasis rosea temporarily disrupts melanocyte function in the skin.
- Most patients can expect complete resolution of hypopigmentation within 2-6 months after the rash has cleared.
- If hypopigmentation persists beyond 6-12 months or is particularly bothersome, consultation with a dermatologist may be warranted to discuss options like topical treatments that might help restore pigmentation more quickly 2.
Management
- Reassurance and symptomatic treatment should suffice in most cases, as pityriasis rosea is a self-limiting condition 3.
- Active intervention may be considered for individuals with severe or recurrent pityriasis rosea, and treatment options include acyclovir, macrolides, and ultraviolet phototherapy.
- For hypopigmentation, topical treatments such as calcipotriol, tacrolimus, or topical corticosteroids may be considered, but these should be discussed with a dermatologist 1.