Have you ever had white spots on your face or skin? An unbalanced diet, neglect of hygiene, sweat, skin conditions or overexposure to the sun during the summer months can generate a variation in the amount of melanin, giving rise to those annoying White facial and body spots that stain our skin. It is an aesthetic problem that worries many, but there is the possibility of hiding it. We tell you everything you need to know about white spots!
White spots on the skin, why do they appear and how to eliminate them?
The variation in the amount of melanin in the skin gives rise to a condition known as hypermelanosis or hypomelanosis. It is true that dark spots are the most common but, especially after months of In summer, white spots may also appear on the face as a symptom of overexposure to the sun, sweat, poor drying of the skin or lack of attention to hygiene.
Although dark spots or hypermelanosis are the most common, hypomelanosis or white spots on the skin may also appear, the size of which can vary from small dots to large white patches.
Generally, this type of spots appear on the neckline, back, arms or legs and, although they are not a serious health problem, it is true that they are a nuisance .
This skin discoloration is normally due to a loss of pigmentation in the epidermis caused by a decrease in the amount of melanin in certain areas that, due to their visibility, usually pose a concern. On an aesthetic level, something that usually happens, especially when there are white spots on the face.
They can affect anyone regardless of their sex and skin color, although, obviously, these spots will always be, by contrast, more evident in darker skin.
Main causes of facial and body white spots
White spots on the face and skin can appear for several reasons. One of the best-known conditions, which affects 2% of the population, is vitiligo, a chronic skin disease of unknown cause and unpredictable course in a generally benign process.
Vitíligo
Vitiligo is linked to loss of pigmentation in certain areas of the body due to a lack of melanocytes, which leads to the appearance of white spots on the skin on the epidermis. The lesions can respond to any shape and size without changing the texture of the skin.
Although the origin of vitiligo is not known, this pathology has been the center of much research, from which conclusions have been drawn such as that vitiligo appears due to oxidative stress, a deficiency of vitamin B12, calcium and folic acid, or to the body’s own autoimmune character, which inactivates melanocytes and they are incapable of producing melanin.
You may be interested in this post in which we go in depth about everything you should know about vitiligo
Causes of white spots on the face (depigmentation, fungus, lack of vitamins)
Although the exact cause of vitiligo is not known, this pathology has been the focus of many studies, from which certain hypotheses have been extracted:
- NUTRITIONAL: Due to a deficiency of vitamin B12, Calcium and folic acid.
- AUTOIMMUNE: The body itself inactivates melanocytes and they are incapable of producing melanin.
- OXIDATIVE STRESS: Free radicals inactivate and even destroy the melanocyte.
But not all white spots on the face are included in “vitili.”
Atopic dermatitis
Another cause that favors the appearance of these spots on the body is atopic dermatitis or eczema, which is more common at an early age. Sometimes, spots appear in the area where the reddish and itchy rash originates, causing dryness. In this sense we are talking about pityriasis alba, a type of atopic eczema of unknown origin that is caused by abundant dry skin. It produces peeling and a bacterial superinfection whose main symptom is the appearance of white spots.
Perhaps you are interested in knowing in depth everything about atopic dermatitis
White spots on the skin caused by fungus
Although it is true that the appearance of white spots on the skin can sometimes catch us by surprise, on other occasions their origin is clear. Fungi can also cause their appearance, as is the case with what is known as tinea versicolor. Lack of personal hygiene is one of its main triggers. Not drying the skin properly after a shower or keeping it sweaty for a long period of time can lead to patches of discoloration on the skin, usually in the armpits, neck, back and chest.
White spots due to age
White spots on the skin can also appear due to age. Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is characterized by the manifestation of those small oval marks in areas of the body that have been subjected to greater sun exposure throughout our lives, usually the neckline, upper back and forearms. Once again it is proven that white spots can appear from the sun and that this element can be one of our skin’s worst enemies.
In this post we talk in depth about white sun spots and how to combat them
White spots on the face due to pityriasis alba
Pityriasis alba, on the other hand, is a type of atopic eczema of unknown origin that favors the formation of peeling and a small bacterial superinfection. It is caused by excessive skin dryness and its main symptom is the appearance of white spots on the face and arms, generally.
Other causes of white spots on the face and body
In addition to these conditions that cause white spots on the face and body, it is also common for a lack of vitamins such as D and E to cause their appearance. This, although it only causes aesthetic problems, is one of the symptoms that have their origin in a poor diet.
As we have seen, there are white spots that are caused by fungi, lack of hygiene, poor diet and, above all, by overexploitation of the sun. Only some of these conditions can be prevented, but all of them can be treated to obtain a better result in the appearance of our skin. Getting rid of white spots on the face is now possible. Know the cause of your problem and tackle the root problem with the product that best suits your needs.
Tips to prevent white spots on the face
At Sesderma we have developed the most complete and innovative treatment to stimulate pigmentation, Vitises, which thanks to nanotechnology manages to transport the active ingredients encapsulated in liposomes to the deepest layers of the skin, acting directly on the cells of the epidermis.
Vitises product line from Sesderma
Within the Vitises line we can find different products to eliminate spots on the skin depending on the origin of the pathology:
- Vitises KT lotion is based on phototherapy to activate the melanocyte in the skin. Its active ingredients, kellin and phenylalanine, react with sun exposure, so its use during sunny hours is recommended. It should be applied only to the spots, stimulating pigmentation in the area.
- Vitises Gel is used in cases where oxidative stress is considered the cause of the problem. It contains active ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that regulate and accelerate skin pigmentation thanks to a composition that brings together liposomes of lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, superoxide dismutase, calcium, silymarin extract, Ginkgo biloba and centella asiatica. Its use is recommended twice a day to combat white spots on the face.
If the problem is caused by an autoimmune reaction, Vitises PCAT may be an appropriate treatment. It is a very complete solution that fights free radicals, provides calcium and strengthens the immune system.
Finally, it has been shown in some cases of vitiligo that the problem is caused by the lack of adhesion of the melanocyte. For this reason, Vitises ECAD is formulated with active ingredients that promote melanocyte adhesion and the synthesis of e-cadherin.
Sesderma Nutricosmetics
Sesderma has two types of melanin precursor food capsules that provide the skin with antioxidants and vitamins to enhance skin pigmentation. These are Vitises, Fenalderm and Curcurses softgels, with turmeric extract.
Importance of sun protection for white spots on the face and body
In addition to treatment, it is also very important to prevent the appearance of these white spots on the face. The tendency is to think that sun protection protects us from burns or dark spots, but it also protects us from lighter spots. To do this, Sesderma has the Repaskin line, a series of photorepair products that uses an exclusive SHIELD-SYSTEM technology designed to reinforce the protection of our skin from solar radiation and repair the DNA of our cells. Repaskin, with efficacy and results demonstrated by studies, prevents the appearance of wrinkles, spots, burns and even other more serious damage to the skin.
Repaskin sunscreens have various textures for different skin types in SPF 30 and SPF 50. You can also find makeup with protection such as Screenenses, which combines physical and chemical filters for optimal protection against UVB-UVA radiation. Screenses products are, more specifically, tinted facial photoprotectors, which prevent the appearance of spots and signs of photoaging, providing a uniform tone and a natural appearance.
Food supplements to combat white spots on the face
Likewise, there are also food supplements to combat photodamage such as C-Vit capsules, which help prepare the skin for tanning, protect it from solar radiation and achieve a uniform tone.
It is proven that the greatest defense against white spots on the face is prevention, and that the use of sunscreen can help prevent the appearance of spots, both dark and light, maintaining a uniform skin tone.
Best creams for white spots on the face and body
At Sesderma, we know that white spots can be an aesthetic concern and, in some cases, a sign of imbalance in the skin. Our team of dermocosmetics experts has formulated specific products that help improve the appearance of blemishes, nourish the skin and restore its uniformity. We recommend creams that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, which provides luminosity, glycolic acid, which helps renew the skin, and antioxidant extracts that protect the skin from external damage. The combination of depigmenting and repairing active ingredients is key for the skin to recover its natural tone.
Frequently asked questions about white spots on the face and body
Should I worry about white spots?
Not all white spots are cause for concern, and in many cases they are due to harmless causes such as sun exposure or small scars. However, if you notice that the spots are increasing or changing shape, it may be advisable to have them checked by a dermatologist to rule out specific conditions such as fungus, vitiligo, or other skin conditions. As experts in dermocosmetics, we remind you that taking care of your skin daily with appropriate products can make a big difference in its appearance and health.
Why do white spots appear on the skin and how can they be prevented?
White spots usually appear due to a variety of factors, such as excessive sun exposure, nutrient deficiencies, or even some skin conditions. To prevent them, protecting the skin from the sun is essential, since UV rays can damage the cells responsible for producing melanin. In addition, maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins such as B12 and E also helps take care of the skin from within. At Sesderma we believe that well-cared for skin is less likely to suffer from imbalances, which is why our products are designed to nourish and protect the skin barrier.
What to do to control skin spots?
If you already have white spots, there are ways to minimize their appearance and improve their appearance. Our recommendation is to implement these steps in your daily routine: Use sunscreen, have a good diet and incorporate appropriate products that strengthen and protect your skin.
How do you know if white spots are fungus?
Fungus usually causes white spots on the skin, especially in humid and warm areas. Typically, these spots are accompanied by itching or even peeling. If you have these symptoms, it may be a fungal infection. It is important not to self-medicate and go to a dermatologist so that he or she can give you appropriate treatment. At Sesderma, we recommend maintaining a proper hygiene routine and using products that strengthen the skin barrier.
How to know if it is fungus or vitiligo?
Although fungal spots and vitiligo may seem similar, they have differences. Vitiligo is a condition in which the cells responsible for pigmentation stop working, causing white spots that do not usually itch or peel. On the other hand, fungal spots are usually itchy and can spread quickly. At Sesderma, we have products that complement dermatological treatments and help improve the texture and appearance of the affected skin.
Why do whiteheads appear on the skin?
Whiteheads can be caused by several reasons, such as keratin buildup, excessive sun exposure, or even small injuries. Most of the time they do not represent a serious problem, but they can be aesthetically annoying. At Sesderma, we offer you products with gentle exfoliants that help eliminate dead cells and improve skin texture, achieving a more uniform and luminous surface.