What are white spots on the skin?

White spots on the skin occur when too little or no pigment (melanin) is produced or in the case of damage, think of scarring and burning of the skin. This phenomenon is also called hypopigmentation and is the opposite of hyperpigmentation. The spots can be small or large, sharply outlined or diffuse, and are often especially noticeable when the skin becomes tanned by sunlight.

Our skin therapists cannot treat white spots. For this, we refer you to a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and diagnosis.

Causes of white spots

The disruption in pigment production can have several causes. Some white spots are temporary (for example, after an infection), while others are permanent due to a genetic or autoimmune disease. Possible causes include:

• Autoimmune diseases – such as vitiligo or halo-naevus (birthmark with white ring).
• After skin conditions – hypopigmentation may follow skin damage, eczema, psoriasis or after a yeast or fungal infection.
• Congenital defects – such as tuberous sclerosis.
• Confetti skin – small white spots caused by chronic sun damage or improper treatment with IPL or laser.

Characteristics of white pigment spots

• White or distinctly lighter spots on the skin.
• Varying in size: from pinhead to larger surfaces.
• With a sharp edge or completely plain white.
• Present from birth or arising later in life.
• Temporary or permanent, depending on the cause.

Age & white spots

The likelihood and cause of white spots vary by stage of life:

• Children and teens – often temporary spots due to fungal infections or eczema.
• Adults – vitiligo or halo-naevus is more often expressed in this age group.
• Older skin – confetti skin due to sun damage or chronic skin aging.

Treatments and advice

The management of white spots depends entirely on the cause. A doctor may sometimes prescribe creams or medications to reduce inflammation or autoimmune reactions. With vitiligo, treatment is often complex. Our skin therapists do not treat white spots themselves, but can advise on:

• Sun protection – daily SPF (minimum 30) reduces the contrast between healthy and white skin areas.
• Camouflage products – specialist advice for medical camouflage and leveling cosmetics.
• Skin care – products from AlumierMD and EmerginC, among others, with gentle filters and restorative ingredients.

Dark spots, however, we can treat with techniques such as IPL or peels. For white spots, we refer you for medical diagnostics.

Free consultation

Unsure if we can do anything for your skin? Feel free to contact us for an informal consultation. Together we will see if treatment is possible and, if necessary, refer you to us.