4 Min Read
White spots on the skin can arise from different reasons, like fungal infections or sun exposure. They are usually not alarming, and can be resolved by simple medications. However, white spots may sometimes indicate towards conditions like hypomelanosis, dermatitis or vitiligo, which affects the pigment cells of the skin. These conditions require specific treatments.
Synopsis
What Causes White Spot on Skin?
Some causes responsible for white spots of the skin are:
-
Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure can cause conditions like freckles, peeling, and hypomelanosis. These conditions often result in white splotches on the skin.
-
Fungal Infection: Malassezia furfur is a yeast that is naturally found on skin. But its overgrowth causes a condition called tinea versicolor, resulting in white spots or white dots on skin.
-
Inflammatory and chronic conditions: Conditions like eczema, pityriasis alba, lichen sclerosus, vitiligo, post-inflammatory hypopigmentation and others can cause white marks on the skin.
-
Genetic or congenital factors: Hypopigmentation of Ito is a rare genetic condition that affects the pigmentation of skin.
-
Nutrient deficiency: Although rare, deficiency of important nutrients like Vitamin B12, zinc and calcium can sometimes cause light spots to appear on skin.
Symptoms of White Spot Issues
Some symptoms associated with issues causing white spots have been discussed below:
-
Tinea versicolor: This is a fungal infection characterised by scaly white spots on skin that can caused mild itching. It is more visible after sun exposure, at it prevents skin from tanning naturally.
-
Vitiligo: Vitiligo is characterised by broad, well-defined white marks on the skin which can spread all over the body.
-
Pityriasis Alba: A mild form of eczema in children and adults causes dry, scaly, pale patches on the skin, especially on the face. These patches can be mildly itchy.
-
Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis: It causes small, round white spots on skin of arms, legs and face. These spots do not cause any pain or irritation.
-
Lichen sclerosus: This chronic inflammatory condition is characterised by shiny white patches, mainly in the genital area.
-
Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation: White spots on skin due to previously being affected by an injury or inflammation.
-
Hypopigmentation of Ito: White streaks or mosaic patterns of hypopigmentation on the skin are noticed, paired with potential neurological abnormalities.
Treatments for White Spot on Skin
Effectiveness of white spot treatments depends on the cause. Sometimes they resolve on their own, but at other times they can be permanent. Some common treatments for white spots are:
-
Topical treatments: Corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors are used for conditions like vitiligo, lichen sclerosus, and sometimes eczema, to reduce inflammation and promote the return of pigmentation.
-
Anti-fungal medications: oral or topical anti-fungal medications are used to treat fungal skin infections.
-
Moisturiser: Moisturiser helps prevent dryness and treat mild eczema is children and adults.
-
Phototherapy or light therapy: This treatment procedure is commonly used on vitiligo patients. It uses NB-UVB radiation, which is safe to use in children, as well as pregnant and lactating women. It halts disease progression through immunomodulation, and stimulates migration of melanocytes to affected areas.
-
Makeup: while not a treatment procedure, cosmetics can help cover up white spots to an extent.
Learn More: How to Prevent Skin Cancer: Essential Protection Tips
Conclusion
White spots are usually not alarming. But, if they are spreading rapidly, getting itchy or irritated, and not healing from over-the-counter treatments, then a medical consultation is vital. At Manipal Hospitals, our expert team of Dermatologists are here to help you with a broad range of skin problems, however big or small. With cutting-edge diagnostic facilities and tailored treatment plans, Manipal Hospitals is there with you every step of the way. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospitals unit today for comprehensive dermatological care.
FAQ's
White spots from vitiligo are not contagious, but white spots from tinea versicolor can spread from direct contact with affected an person or sharing items.
White spots emerging due to pityriasis alba, mild fungal infections or post-inflammatory hypopigmentation can fade on their own over time with proper care. However, white spots as a result of vitiligo are most likely permanent.
Vitiligo is not curable, but treatments, like topical creams and phototherapy, can help restore pigment temporarily and prevent spread.
White spots due to inflammation or autoimmune response cannot be prevented. But white spots caused by sun exposure can be prevented by applying sunscreen and limiting sun exposure. A nutritious diet, staying hydrated and a proper skincare routine are essential to keep skin healthy.
Skin whitening creams have bleaching agents and steroids, which can damage pigment cells and cause permanent white patches on the skin.
Share this article on:
