White Patches on Skin: Reasons, Symptoms, Treatment and Home Remedies

White spots on your skin can evoke a range of emotions, from curiosity to concern about their origin and impact on your well-being. These spots can be of different sizes and shapes and may have various causes, including pigmentation irregularities or underlying skin conditions. Let us discuss the triggers, potential treatments, and remedies for individuals experiencing white patches on skin.

What are the Reasons for White Spots on the Skin?

White spots on the face or other parts of the body can be due to various causes, some of which are listed below:

• Fungal infections, such as tinea versicolor, are among the most common causes of white patches on the face. 
• Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by the loss of pigmentation, resulting in white patches. It arises when the immune system attacks and destroys the cells (melanocytes) responsible for skin color.
• Pityriasis alba is common in children and often appears as white patches on the face.
• Reduced melanin is also one of the common causes of white spots on the face.
• Excessive sunlight exposure can cause the skin to lose pigmentation and develop white sunspots or freckles.
• Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis manifests as small, white, flat spots that typically appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the arms and legs.
• White color patches on the skin can develop due to healed skin inflammation, especially after conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or specific skin injuries.
• Contact with certain chemicals or substances can lead to depigmentation, causing small white spots on the skin.

What are the Symptoms of White Patches?

The symptoms of white patches can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, here are some of the most common symptoms you might encounter:

• The primary and most noticeable symptom is the white color of these patches. These patches can vary in outline and size, exhibiting characteristics such as flat or raised surfaces.
• Sometimes, underlying conditions may cause itching or burning sensations, though most of the time, white patches do not cause pain or itching.
• Depending on the root cause, the white patches may spread over time, contributing to changes in affected areas.

Some of the symptoms depend on specific condition:

• Vitiligo can result in white patches on various skin areas, including the hands, face, arms, and legs.
• Pityriasis alba presents as small, non-itchy, white patches on the cheeks, chin, and upper arms. These patches often fade on their own.
• Tinea versicolor leads to the formation of white or brown patches on the skin. The person may experience itching and scaliness, and the symptoms worsen in warm weather.
• Lichen sclerosus causes white patches on the genitals and anus. It may be associated with itching, pain, and scarring.

What is the Treatment of White Spots on the Skin?

The treatment of white patches on the skin depends on the underlying cause. Some of the common treatment approaches are:

• Doctors may prescribe topical steroids for various conditions, such as vitiligo or lichen sclerosus, to reduce inflammation and promote repigmentation.
• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus may modulate the immune response and address pigmentation issues.
• UVB phototherapy involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of UVB light, stimulating pigment production. It can be effective for certain conditions like vitiligo.
• Antifungal creams can treat fungal infections causing white spots, such as tinea versicolor.
• The targeted laser therapy is used for conditions like vitiligo, helping stimulate melanin production in affected areas.
• You can consider micro-pigmentation or tattooing to camouflage the white patches in cases where repigmentation is challenging.
• Keeping the skin well-moisturized can be beneficial, especially for conditions like pityriasis alba.
• For scarring, scar management techniques may improve skin texture.

What are the Home Remedies for White Spots on the Skin?

Some gentle and potentially helpful home remedies for white spots on the face are:

• Natural Moisturizers:
  • Coconut Oil: Its fatty acids and Vitamin E can help hydrate and soothe the skin.
  • Aloe Vera gel: Its anti-inflammatory properties can calm irritation and promote healing.
  • Honey: Its antibacterial properties may help prevent infections, and its natural sugars can be mildly hydrating.
• Dietary Changes:
  • Focus on Fruits and Vegetables: They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support overall skin health.
  • Include Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid: White patches on the skin may be due to the deficiency of Vitamin B12 and folic acid. These nutrients are essential for melanin production and may help pigmentation.
• Sun Protection:
  • Always Wear Sunscreen: Sunscreen is one of the most effective home remedies for white spots on the skin. Sun exposure can worsen white patches, so SPF 30 or higher is recommended daily.
  • Seek Shade During Peak Sun Hours: Protect your skin from direct sunlight, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up exposed areas with hats, long sleeves, and pants when outdoors.
• Stress Management:
  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage stress, which can trigger white patches.
  • Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours sleep each night.
  • Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Find healthy ways to unwind and de-stress.

When to Consult a Doctor?

If you observe the white patches on your skin spreading or undergoing changes in size or shape, experiencing pain, itching, or burning, or if these patches are accompanied by additional symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or joint pain, it's advisable to seek advice from your dermatologist.

What are the Ways to Prevent White Spots?

You can decrease the probability of getting white spots by adopting certain practices that mitigate risks and manage existing patches. Applying sunscreen, seeking shade during peak sun hours, donning protective clothing, and managing stress through techniques like yoga and meditation, aiming for 7-8 hours of quality sleep, and including ample fruits and vegetables, with a focus on Vitamin B12 and folic acid keeping skin well-hydrated and avoiding harsh products are some of the ways that decrease your risk towards developing this condition.

Conclusion

White spots (hypopigmentation) can appear on your skin for various reasons, from fungal infections to autoimmune conditions. These spots vary in size and shape. The reason for white spots on the skin may be from pigmentation issues or underlying skin conditions. Some resolve on their own, others require medical attention. While complete prevention is also impossible, healthy habits such as sun protection, stress management, a nourishing diet, and gentle skincare empower individuals to take charge of their skin health.

FAQs

1. Which vitamin deficiency may be a cause of small white spots on the skin? 

Vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency may cause white patches on the skin.

2. Is there a cure for white spots on the skin? 

The availability of a cure for white patches on the skin depends on the underlying issue. By eliminating the cause, your doctor may be able to eradicate the disease.

3. Which foods to avoid for white patches? 

No specific evidence suggests that one should avoid certain foods for white patches on the skin.