White spots on the skin and the face is often indicative of some type of skin disorder. The disease that results in white patches of skin often results in loss of skin pigmentation in the melanocytes that give color to the skin is lost due to altered production of melanin.
White spots are not restricted to the facial skin, but also affect other body parts like the neck, hands, legs and other body parts. What are the causes that trigger these discolored spots on your skin?
Causes and treatment of white patches on the skin
There are many skin conditions and medical illnesses that can result in patches of white skin. One of the most common causes of white patches on the skin is vitiligo. Also known as leukoderma, the disease affects about two percent of all people. This disease causes loss of melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells in the skin. This in turn results in faded white spots on the skin, especially on the face, genital and rectal areas. People with autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata or hypothyroidism are prone to this problem than others. Hormonal imbalance, stress and environmental factors may trigger this problem. Hereditary factors or even minor trauma can result in white patches on the skin.
There is no specific treatment for this problem. Artificial light therapy, skin grafts, treatment of pigmentation and the use of steroid creams can help reduce the problem. Besides that people who suffer from this problem are advised to stay away from certain citrus fruits, iron-rich foods and seafood. People with leukoderma should stay away from harsh soaps and cosmetics.
Tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor is a fungal infection that causes white spots on body parts like the neck, hands and feet. Caused by the fungus Pityrosporum ovale, the infection usually affects people living in hot and humid weather. Parts of the skin that are often wet and greasy as the abdomen, thighs, neck and arms are often affected by this infection of the skin. Excessive sweating, malnutrition and ingestion of certain drugs can cause the growth of this fungal infection. Against antifungals such as clotrimazole or miconazole, along with lotions and creams containing anti-fungal medications can be used to treat the problem.
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis
An inherited disease that causes white spots on teardrop on the face, this problem affects mainly the skin of the face, neck and arms. Exposure to sunlight and aging are among the factors that contribute to the emergence of this problem. Usually, the fair-skinned people and women are affected by this skin problem. The patches of skin are usually harmless and often do not cause any problems. There is no cure for this skin problem. Invasive measures, such as microdermabrasion, cryotheraphy light, a skin graft, steroid creams and cosmetic surgery can help cover up the scars of this disease.
A disease of the skin pigmentation that affects newborns, Nevus Depigmentosus is caused by the malfunction of the melanocytes in the skin. The low production of pigment produces localized skin lesions.
Dealing with white spots on skin
Different grafting techniques, PUVA therapy and excimer laser treatment are some treatment options for this skin problem. Because people who suffer from this problem is a lack of melanin, which may suffer from problems of sunburn. Sunscreen and sunscreen should be applied to other parts exposed skin to avoid burns.
Pityriasis alba is a skin disease that affects children and causes white patches on the skin. The decrease in the number of melanocytes causes lines and the appearance of fine sheets scale discolored. Emollients and hydrocortisone cream can be used for the treatment of this disease. Camouflage cosmetics and PUVA therapy may be recommended for this problem.
In addition, the lack of vitamins in the diet, accidents, burns, exposure to certain chemicals and diseases of the skin as acne can result in white patches on the face. Inadequate skin care can also lead to the appearance of discolored spots on the pale face. While the medical causes of white spots can be treated only with the help of professionals, there are certain steps you can take to avoid the white patches on the skin.
Home treatment for white patches on the skin
White spots on the skin are often caused by lack of melanin-producing cells in the body. The lack of melanin in the skin can cause sunburn when exposed to sunlight for long. On the other hand exposure to the sun's UV rays can inhibit the healing process. It is essential to minimize exposure to direct sunlight, wear sun-protective clothing and use a good sunscreen at least half an hour before going outdoors.
Besides this is a regime of good skin care. Wash your face regularly with a mild cleanser to remove dirt and granules that can cause bacterial or fungal infections. You can use a mild commercial cleaner or a household cleaner to soak the fenugreek seeds overnight in water and use water to clean your face. In addition to this exfoliate your face with a gentle exfoliating and using a good moisturizer to hydrate skin and prevent dryness caused by white patches of skin.
Washing your face with apple cider vinegar is also known to help the vinegar kills bacteria and fungi and prevents any skin infection that can cause white spots. Aloe vera pulp or a paste of honey and cinnamon when applied to the affected area can also help in the healing process. Extracts of green tea when applied to the white spots may also help minimize discoloration.
Make a paste of honey powder, turmeric and sandalwood and apply on the patches of white skin wash after ten to fifteen minutes. Regular use of these treatments at home can help reduce skin problem effectively. If the white spots are persistent, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist and seek medical attention immediately.