Medically reviewed by William Trueswell, MD
White spots on the skin can have many causes. From sun exposure to fungal infections to skin conditions, there are many things that can cause certain areas of skin to lighten.
Although this is usually not a cause for concern, your white spots should be examined by a doctor to determine the cause of the color. Depending on the underlying cause, there may be ways to reduce white spots on the skin or address other problems they may cause.
What causes white spots on the skin?
If you see white spots on your skin, it does not immediately mean that you have a skin disease. Sometimes other factors can cause light spots on the skin. Here are some of the reasons why white spots may appear on your skin.
sun spots
The term "sunspot" can refer to dark or curved spots, sunspots can appear as white or light spots on the skin.
These benign white spots, medically known as idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, occur when the skin lacks melanin (the pigment cells that give the skin, eyes, and hair their color). Experts believe that this is often due to sun exposure rather than other factors such as aging.
Not surprisingly, these white spots are often seen in areas exposed to the sun, such as the armpits, arms, back, and face. They are as small as freckles, usually less than 1/8 inch, and seem to run in families.
Tinea versicolor
Tinea versicolor occurs when there is an overgrowth of a natural yeast on the skin. This fungal infection of the skin results in a rash, which may eventually appear as white or light-colored spots.
White spots with tinea versicolor usually appear on the back, arms, chest, neck, and forehead. This type of fungal infection is not considered contagious.
Tinea versicolor is more common in teenagers and adults, as well as in people who live in hot climates. If you have an infection, you may experience symptoms such as mild itching, mild swelling, and increased sweating.
Pityriasis alba
Pityriasis alba is a skin disease that causes small circles of skin to change color. Some people may experience rash and itching.
These white spots are usually seen on the face, arms and body. They may last for a few months or more than a year, but they are not permanent.
Experts do not know what causes pityriasis versicolor, but it is thought to be related to eczema. It is very common in children and adolescents.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease that causes skin tags to lose color and develop white patches. This condition occurs when the body's immune system accidentally attacks the body's pigmented cells.
Vitiligo spots and patches usually start on the face, hands, arms, and legs. After that, spots and scars may grow or multiple spots may develop on other parts of your body. At first the spot may be pink. After vitiligo becomes inactive, the affected skin turns white.
Some people may notice other symptoms of vitiligo, such as itching, increased sensitivity to sunburn, changes in hearing, and changes in eye or hair color.
Although vitiligo can run in families, it can also be caused by factors such as severe sunburn, trauma to the skin, or exposure to harsh chemicals on the skin.
Milia
Milia are small, harmless white bumps that occur when dead skin cells (keratin) stick to the skin's surface.
Milia usually appear on the face, such as the cheeks, nose, and chin, but they can also appear on other parts of the body. They can occur in adults but are more common in newborns.
Steroid-induced hypopigmentation
Corticosteroid injection or steroid application can sometimes cause white spots at the injection or application site.
These spots (or single spots) are often irregular in shape, but appear well defined. They may take some time to appear and may resolve after a few months.
How to get rid of white spots on skin
Depending on the cause, the white spots on your skin may or may not go away. Sometimes acne scars will go away on their own, while in other cases, you will need treatment. Sometimes you don't need treatment for medical reasons, but you want the stitches visible for aesthetic reasons.
Sunspots: Sunspots don't need to be treated, but if they're bothersome, your doctor may recommend a skin cream like tretinoin (a retinoid). Dermabrasion can help smooth the area.
Pityriasis alba: The white patches of pityriasis alba heal on their own, although topical steroids, certain moisturizers, or laser treatments can help reduce their appearance if needed.
Tinea versicolor: Over-the-counter antifungals may be recommended for fungal infections like tinea versicolor. In some cases, a prescription antifungal medication, either applied to the skin or taken by mouth, may be needed.
Vitiligo: There is currently no cure for vitiligo, but there are a number of treatments that can help restore skin color and possibly reduce the chance of the white patches spreading to other parts of the body. Treatment options for vitiligo often include topical medications, lasers, phototherapy (light therapy), and cosmetic creams. In severe cases, skin grafts can be performed.
Milia: Milia in infants and children do not require treatment and often disappear within weeks without treatment. However, stubborn milia in adults can be removed by the doctor if the patient so requests.
Steroid-induced hypopigmentation: White spots caused by injections or steroid use may resolve on their own.
When should you worry about white spots on your skin?
White spots on the skin are usually not a cause for concern. However, it is best to have the skin discolorations checked by a doctor, as they can be caused by a variety of reasons. This allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment if needed.
In general, consult a doctor if you notice unusual spots on the skin:
The color has changed
It never disappeared or reappeared.
Spread to other parts of the body
It causes additional symptoms such as itching or pain
How to prevent white spots on skin
There is no way to prevent skin diseases like vitiligo. But you can do your part to keep your skin healthy and protected from the sun's rays, chemicals and other irritants.
For overall skin health, experts generally recommend:
Apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing when in the sun
Use caution in workplaces where chemicals are involved
Ask your doctor if you should schedule regular skin exams
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
Use warm (not hot) water and gentle products in your skin care routine
Quick review
White spots on the skin can be caused by sun exposure, fungal infections or topical injections or steroids. White spots can result from underlying skin conditions such as pityriasis alba, vitiligo or milia. Although many white spots are usually harmless and may disappear on their own, it is best to have the area examined by a doctor for an official diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
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