What are White Patches on the Skin?
White patches are a common skin condition characterised by white spots or patches on the skin.
White spots on the skin may result from sun exposure, skin conditions, or problems with skin pigmentation, among other things.
White spots may develop on any body area, although the face, arms, and legs are the most frequently affected.
Causes of White Spots
Excessive sun exposure is a common cause of white spots on the skin. White spots commonly affect people with fair skin, but they can also affect people who are older and have darker skin. A lack of melanin causes white spots, making the surrounding skin more prone to sunburn.
Skin pigmentation issues, such as vitiligo, can cause white patches. Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the skin to lose colour due to a lack of melanin.
Certain skin conditions, such as pityriasis alba and tinea versicolor, can also cause white spots.
Having an oily skin type can also contribute to developing white spots.
Skin Conditions that Cause White Spots
Pityriasis Alba
Pityriasis alba is a skin condition that causes white patches, often accompanied by redness and itching.
It is most commonly found on the face, neck, and arms.
Topical steroids and moisturisers can help to treat pityriasis alba.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin disorder that causes white patches on the skin due to a loss of skin pigment. Vitiligo appears white or lighter skin and can grow over time if not treated.
It can appear on any part of the body and can be treated with topical steroids and light therapy.
Vitiligo can also cause skin discoloration and itchy skin.
Other Factors that Contribute to White Spots
- Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, can cause white spots on the skin.
- Tinea versicolor, a fungal skin infection, can also cause white patches.
- Skin cancer can also cause white spots on the skin, making it essential to seek medical attention if you notice any unusual changes.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment Options
Your doctor or dermatologist can prescribe topical steroid creams and moisturisers to help treat white spots on the skin.
Light therapy and laser treatment are other effective white patches and vitiligo treatments (NHS).
Sometimes, skin grafting or transplantation may be necessary to treat white spots.
Prevention
- Protecting your skin from sun exposure can help to prevent white spots and sun spots.
- Keep your skin moisturised to help prevent dryness and irritation, which can lead to white spots. Opt for moisturisers that contain natural ingredients to prevent further irritation.
- Avoiding oily and gentle skin care products can also help prevent white spots.
Seeking Medical Attention
- If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, such as white spots or patches, it is essential to seek medical attention.
- A dermatologist can help to diagnose the cause of white spots and recommend effective treatment options.
- Early detection and treatment can help to prevent skin cancer and other severe skin conditions.
