White spots on the skin, also known as hypopigmentation, can be caused by a variety of factors, including skin injuries, infections, and certain medical conditions. They are less common than dark spots and can appear on any part of the body.
There are several types of hypopigmentation, including vitiligo, albinism, and tinea versicolor.
Vitiligo is a condition where the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, die or stop functioning. This results in the appearance of white patches on the skin.
Albinism is a genetic condition where the body produces little or no melanin, resulting in white or very light skin.
Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection that causes white or light-colored patches on the skin.
To prevent white spots from forming or worsening, it's important to protect your skin from the sun. This includes wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats.
To treat existing white spots, there are several options available. These include:
Topical creams and ointments: There are various over-the-counter and prescription topical creams and ointments that can help to darken the color of white spots. These include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and vitamin D analogues.
Light therapy: This is a procedure that uses specific types of light to darken the color of white spots. UVB or Narrowband UVB is one of the most common types of light therapy used to treat vitiligo.
Surgical options: In some cases, surgical options such as skin grafting or tattooing can be used to darken the color of white spots. These procedures should be performed by a qualified medical professional.
Pigment-inducing agents: Pigment-inducing agents like minoxidil and anthralin can be used to induce pigmentation in white spots.
It's important to note that while these treatments can help to darken white spots, they may not completely remove them. Also, it's important to consult a doctor before undergoing any treatment.
In addition to these treatments, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress can also help to improve the appearance of white spots over time.
White spots on the skin can be a source of frustration, but with the right treatment and preventative measures, they can be effectively managed. If you have persistent white spots or other symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Natural Home Remedies to decrease White Spots on the Skin
While there are several medical treatments available for white spots on the skin, there are also a number of natural home remedies that may help to decrease their appearance. These include:
Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel has skin-darkening properties that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Apply the gel directly to the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Turmeric: Turmeric has skin-darkening properties that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a teaspoon of yogurt to make a paste and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil has skin-darkening properties that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Apply coconut oil directly to the affected area and massage it in gently. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off with warm water in the morning.
Onion juice: Onion juice has skin-darkening properties that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Apply fresh onion juice to the affected area using a cotton ball and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Red clay: Red clay has skin-darkening properties that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Mix red clay powder with water to make a paste, and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to reduce the appearance of white spots. Apply Vitamin E oil to the affected area and massage it in gently. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off with warm water in the morning.
It's important to note that while these remedies may provide relief, they should not replace the advice or treatment of a doctor. If the white spots are severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Also, these remedies may take time to show results and consistency is key in seeing improvement.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456