White Spots On The Skin: What Are They Caused By?

Do you suffer from white spots on your skin?  Have you ever had them? It is common, for example, to see them on our body on those summer days when tanning reveals unsightly white marks. Next, we will delve into its causes and treatment.

Sometimes these spots even appear on the back or on the face, and even in very young people. What originates them? What treatment should we follow? Before talking about this common reality, it is appropriate to point out that, if you have any questions or problems, go to your doctor or dermatologist.

White patches on the skin: tinea versicolor

The so-called tinea versicolor is very common, but it is not serious and usually remits. This condition usually manifests itself as white patches on the skin, especially in these areas:

• Chest and back.
• Legs and arms.
• Areas that are usually visible in the summer.

They appear mainly in the hottest times or just when we are going to enter the fall. In general, among younger people they are caused by the effects of sweating, hormonal changes and humidity.

As we have pointed out before, it is not dangerous, it is not contagious, nor does it cause pain. It’s just the appearance of those unsightly white spots on your skin, which are tough and don’t go away easily.

How is tinea versicolor treated?

Tinea versicolor is a type of fungus and as such requires treatment. Fortunately, this is usually effective, so don’t worry. In general, the following methods are used:

• Antifungal drugs, such as terbinafine or miconazole, very suitable for treating infection.
• Shampoos with selenium sulfide. They go very well and you don’t have to do more than apply them to the affected area at night for them to take effect. Then, in the morning, you have to take a bath to remove it.
• Aloe vera: A home remedy that could alleviate the effects of these spots a bit. You would only have to apply the gel of the plant, do a little massage and allow it to act for a couple of hours, and then take a shower.

If after using these treatments for at least two weeks you do not improve, or  if you notice that the spots do not disappear, it is better to consult a dermatologist.

White spots on the skin: vitiligo

Vitiligo is already a more serious reality. Its essential origin is the loss of a pigment: melanin. It is a problem of the immune system; an error occurs in it, in which our body attacks and destroys melanocytes, a type of cell in the body . Let’s see its most relevant characteristics:

• These white spots on the skin appear anywhere on our body. They can be large or small and come in any shape.
• They do not usually cause discomfort ,  pain, itching or irritation. They appear without symptoms, but yes, they are usually striking.
• In general, they tend to be frequent in people who live in humid places.
• Sometimes these white spots can turn brown with small scales on them. That’s when they start to give us enough discomfort.

What treatment is there for vitiligo?

Unfortunately, there is currently no effective treatment for vitiligo. This autoimmune disease usually has a genetic component and there is no effective and safe way to stop this destruction of melanocytes.

Repigmentation using steroids  or immunomodulators is sometimes attempted , but not always successful. Experts recommend using sunscreens — creams — to protect hypopigmented areas from solar radiation.

At the level of natural remedies, there are many people who resort to aloe vera and turmeric fillings and mustard oil to reduce their incidence. Obviously, the white spots on the skin will not disappear, but with constancy they can be noticed somewhat less and, in addition, take care of the skin.

White spots on the skin: nutritional deficit

Sometimes we follow incorrect diets that cause  significant deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. You have to take special care with the little ones and always take care that they do not present this type of stain.

If we see them, it is worth going to the doctor for an analysis. It can be a clue to a nutritional deficit, like this one we describe below:

• Calcium, vitamin D and vitamin E deficiency. Never neglect foods rich in calcium! Remember that not only dairy products are rich in this mineral, vegetables also have these essential nutrients for the health of your skin and bones.

Finally, keep in mind that there are many dietary supplements to improve skin health. One of the basic recommendations is to improve your diet and that it is always complete and balanced to avoid these small problems.