Who does not want clear, even-toned and flawless-looking skin, right? But thanks to various factors such as exposure to sun, dirt, pollution, diet and even genes, having flawless skin can seem like a distant dream. And one such skin problem that affects a lot of women, especially in the modern-day is white spots on the face. Caused due to a variety of reasons, these spots can be extremely annoying and may seem really difficult to deal with. When skin proteins or dead skin cells get trapped under the skin's surface, it could lead to the appearance of these spots. Another possible reason could be loss of colour or depigmentation in particular areas. Since there are several types of white spots, it is very easy to feel confused about them and what causes them. But to make things easier for you and help you understand these spots better, we spoke to Mumbai-based dermatologist and skincare expert Dr. Niketa Sonavane. In this article, Dr. Sonavane explains in detail the various types of white spots on the face, the possible causes and as well as the best ways to deal with them. So without any further delay, let's begin.
01Types of white spots on face
There are six major types of white spots on the face as seen in both adults and children. Up ahead, Dr. Sonavane explains in detail the causes, prevention methods and treatment options of each of these types of white spots to give you a better understanding of how to deal with them. Milia are small white bumps on the face that look like whiteheads. They form when keratin and dead cells get trapped under the surface of the skin. Milia are usually seen around the eyes, upper cheeks and nose. They occur in men, women as well as children. Milia is also seen in babies, as their skin is immature and still developing.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Prevention
Proper wound care with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication may prevent these patches.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
Needling -
Your skin doctor removes the milia with the help of a sterile needle.
Chemical peels -
Your doctor applies a skin peeling solution to remove the dead skin.
Microdermabrasion -
The skin is abraded with crystal sand to remove the dead cells. Pityriasis alba is a type of childhood eczema. It appears as white coloured, dry spots on the face which sometimes also look pink. Pityriasis alba is more noticeable on tanned and dark skin.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Prevention
Proper wound care with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication may prevent these patches.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Prevention
Proper wound care with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication may prevent these patches.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
Causes
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a part of skin aging.
Treatment
This condition does not need any treatment.
02FAQs about white spots on face
Q. How do I get rid of white spots on the face?
**A. **Some tips to get rid of white spots on the face
- Avoid picking or poking
- Keep the area thoroughly clean
- Ask your doctor to prescribe some medicine
- Gently exfoliate the area regularly
- Use sunscreen without fail
- Opt for a facial peel at least once a month
Q. Which vitamins are good to get rid of white spots?
**A. **Although pretty uncommon, the deficiency in vitamin D, vitamin E and calcium could be the reason behind the appearance of those annoying white spots. Although these patches are usually harmless, it would best to consult your doctor about the best form of treatment before starting any vitamin supplements to reduce the chances of an adverse reaction.
Q. Are white spots permanent?
**A. **This depends on the type and intensity of the white spots on your face. If you recognize and get the right treatment for the white spots at an early stage itself, then there is a higher chance of preventing these spots from being permanent.
