Depigmented skin is an uncommon condition that affects only 1 to 2% of the population across the globe. White macules or dots indicate that your body loses the ability to produce enough melanin pigment. However, dealing with depigmentation disorder can be debilitating to both your physical and emotional wellbeing. Many research studies have described the substantial psychological destruction and mental anguish between both genders that are affected by this skin condition. It is natural to feel deep grief even after seeing a small white patch on your face. However, we would like to remind you of one beautiful thing that is impossible turns possible when you take a leap of faith.
Another epidemiological study cited in Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences has aimed at the importance of the right knowledge about this problem. Vitiligo is considered one of the major causes of white patches on the face. But, certain aspects such as family support, duration of treatment, and the root cause of the problem are still under the veil.
Causes behind white patches on your skin
- Pityriasis Alba
- Eczema
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Milia
1. Pityriasis Alba
This skin condition mostly affects children and adolescents between the age of 3-16 years. However, it can also occur in younger or elder individuals. Pityriasis Alba is more prevalent in people with dark skin than white skin. Eczema and the overactive immune response are the supposed causes of this problem.
It begins with round or oval-shaped patches of red or pale skin on the chest, upper arms, back, especially face. When these dry and scaly patches fade away, they leave white patches on the skin.
2. Eczema
Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis, which is characterized by red, dry, and itchy skin because of inflammation. This inflamed and irritated skin results in a lighter patch of skin than the skin around it. It mostly affects your elbows, back of knees, wrist, and face. Potential causes of eczema are extra dry skin, impaired immune system, and certain allergies.
Several research studies have stated the people with damaged skin barrier are at a higher risk of eczema. This is the reason that skin care experts always emphasize on the importance of determining your skin type before using any products. Harsh ingredients, detergents, and chemical preservatives may worsen the skin condition.
3. Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes severe itching, scaly patches, and dandruff on your scalp. It also affects the oily part of your body like face, ears, eyelids, and chest area. High-stress levels and fungal infections have been found as the main causative factor of this skin issue. Scarring caused by seborrheic dermatitis may lead to hypopigmentation i.e. loss of melanin in the skin.
Seborrheic dermatitis can be managed with the help of topical skin and hair care formulation such as anti-dandruff shampoo and antifungal creams. People having severe dandruff issues are advised to choose anti dandruff shampoo having antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition, which results in the rapid production of skin cells. Build up of skin cells on the surface of skin leads to bumpy red patches covered with white scales. The common type of psoriasis affects hands, feet, neck, scalp, and face. There is no permanent treatment for this problem however; it can be managed with the help of medications. Understanding the severity of the problem, it is good seeing a dermatologist.
5. Milia
Milia are white bumps like cysts that appear on the face , especially cheeks and eyelids. They develop when keratin protein becomes entrapped underneath your skin. In most of the cases, milia get resolved without treatment.
However, to prevent the further spread of such bumps on the skin, it is important to follow precautionary measures. Dermatologists advice to follow a proper skin care regimen including a non-comedogenic cleanser, mild exfoliator, and nourishing cream.
P.S.
It is a prerequisite to seek advice from an experienced dermatologist if you see any white patches on your skin. It will not only help to find an ideal line of treatment but also help you to deal with unwanted stress that comes along with your skin condition. Furthermore, keeping a check on your eating habits, stress management, and skin care products are certain approaches, which can help you to stop the spread of white patches.
