Small Skin White Spots What Can You Do?

So what are these little white spots on my skin? The most common type of discoloration is known as tinea versicolor (or white skin spots).

This is a pretty typical hypopigmentation disorder that's usually caused by a fungus that lives on the skin.

These tiny round white marks are not dangerous - but they can be unsightly and annoying........

Especially if you have darker skin or a tan.

Unlike other skin spots, these are not an age related problem as people of all ages can get them, especially if they tan often.

Hypopigmentation disorder will usually show up on the shoulders, back, and chest and they may not always be white in color.

They may look a bit darker or light than the surrounding area.

For example, some will show up as small brown spots. Also, they may itch - especially during hot weather or if you haven't bathed in a while.

Causes of Skin White Spots

Most people have this yeast and it’s completely harmless and very common – in fact -- this yeast is also responsible for jock itch, ringworm, and athlete’s foot.

However, most people who have notice them more during warm humid weather because the yeast and fungi can grow during this time and most people are sporting a tan which makes these white dots show up more.

Tinea versicolor can aso affect people with oily skin which is why it is more common in younger people than older folks.

As we age, our complexion becomes drier and this sometimes eliminates the problem.

Other causes can include an impaired immune system, hormonal imbalance, and certain prescription medications - such as birth control and acne -- especially when you combine these medications with over use of tanning salons or excessive sun exposure.

It is thought that these medications can interfere with the tanning process causing an uneven white tan spots.

In some rare cases, white spots can be a result of a skin disease known as Leucoderma or Vitiligo.

This condition only affects about 2% of the population but instead of round small white spots, this disease appear in clusters or patches of white rings – this is where skin the lacks melanin – which was destroyed by the disease.

How To Get Rid of White Spots

The course of treatment usually involves the use of anti fungal creams, soaps and oral prescription medications. The simplest method to help relive itching and reduce some white patches is using a special soap prescribed by your doctor.

Some people find relief using a specific anti-fungal, anti-dandruff shampoo for their body and hair like Nizoral A-D . While this shampoo is made for itchy flaky scalp - but many people have reported good results using it as a body wash too. This soap helps to reduce or slow the growth of the fungus responsible.

It's actually a pretty nice shampoo and does wonders for the hair too. Many people who suffer from Tina versicolor due to fungus usually suffer from an itchy scalp - so you can take care of both problems with one product.

Just keep in mind this is a very hard condition to keep under control and there really is no cure....it's just a constant battle to keep the fungus to a minimum. That requires regular bathing and the use of anti-fungal soaps and shampoos.

In extreme cases you doctor can prescribe anti fungal pills, but they can very hard on the live. So, you'll need to have regular blood tests and even then, it's not a cure, just helps keep the proliferation of the fungi under control.

For most people this extreme treatment works well and the spots will go away - but they usually come back in a few years. So whatever treatment you choose, be prepared to repeat it to keep the condition under control.

Also, for better results you can combine the prescription medication with regular washing and shampooing with anti-fungal soaps.

And, try to reduce sun exposure and the darker you are the more noticeable the color difference will be. If you must have a tan, consider using a self spray on sun tan for a beautiful brown color without UVA damage.

Finally, some physicians believe that the fungus that causes these annoying skin white spots can also live on your clothing, so make sure to keep them clean by dry cleaning or washing them often.

Additional Reading

6% Bleaching Cream - It contains three proven ingredients to reduce discoloration and lighten skin. And, receive a $25.00 Gift Certificate e-Card with each purchase!

Renew Intensive Skin Therapy - If your complexion is blotchy or spotty, consider an intense facial to even out tone and texture

Instant Wrinkle Filler - Use this serum before a party, reunion, or important date where you need to look Fabulous! Works in 15 min. and last for hours.