Causes of Small White Spots on Skin

Small white spots on your skin are lighter areas compared to your normal skin color. Most of the time, these spots are harmless and caused by sun exposure.

Have you noticed white spots on your skin? While they can be caused by a more serious skin condition, most of the time they are harmless and caused by the sun. This condition is called idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis and is benign.

White spots on the skin are lighter than your normal skin color. We usually associate sun exposure with extra melanin production, which leads to brown spots or a tan. However, the sun can also stop the production of melanin, resulting in white spots on the skin in those areas.

Sometimes, white spots on the skin can also be caused by fungal infections. It is advisable to see a doctor for a skin examination if you have these spots.

Signs and Symptoms of White Spots on Skin

White spots on the skin do not usually cause any physical discomfort. However, signs of white spots on the skin due to sun exposure include:

• Small spots that are lighter than your normal skin color
• Round, oval-shaped, irregular-shaped, or feathery-shaped spots
• Spots on areas most exposed to the sun, such as arms, legs, and upper back
• Spots 2 to 6 millimeters in size
• Spots developing slowly over the years
• Spots that do not have a pattern or grouping
• Spots that do not change in size or go away once present
• Spots that are typically smooth

These white spots on the skin do not affect the hair follicle or cause hair to lose its pigment. The appearance of white spots also differs between men and women, with women experiencing them at younger ages.

Most people with small white spots caused by the sun do not experience any symptoms as they develop. These spots are not itchy or inflamed and are considered harmless. The risk of developing white sun spots increases with age and frequent unprotected sun exposure.

Causes of White Spots on Skin

The exact cause of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is still unknown. However, it is believed to be a result of decreased melanin production. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light damages the skin cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color.

The decrease in melanin production may also be attributed to structural differences in the skin. Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

In general, research is not conclusive about the exact cause, but sun exposure is considered the primary factor.

When to Seek Medical Attention for White Spots on Skin

In most cases, small white spots on the skin caused by improper sun protection are harmless. However, if the spots resemble other skin conditions or cause discomfort, it is advisable to see a doctor.

You should see a doctor if the white spots on your skin:

• Are uncomfortable or itchy
• Appear red or inflamed
• Look like flaky patches that ooze or weep
• Make you feel upset or distressed about your appearance

If you have an autoimmune disorder, you are at risk of developing additional conditions. It is essential to consult your doctor if you have an autoimmune disorder to rule out the possibility of an autoimmune skin condition like vitiligo or eczema.

People with allergies or asthma may be susceptible to developing eczema, which causes dry, itchy, white patches of skin. If you have allergies or asthma and experience these symptoms, it is recommended to see your doctor.

Diagnosis and Tests for White Spots on Skin

Your doctor will diagnose white spots on your skin by discussing your personal and family medical history and examining your skin. In some cases, your doctor may perform a biopsy, which involves removing a sample of skin for examination. However, this procedure is typically unnecessary.

Your doctor may also request additional tests to rule out other skin conditions or infections.

Treatments for White Spots on Skin

Sun exposure leading to white spots on the skin is generally harmless. However, some people find the spots visually unpleasant and seek treatment from their doctor. Treatment options may include:

• Using sunscreen to protect the skin from further damage
• Applying corticosteroid cream
• Using tretinoin retinoid cream
• Applying pimecrolimus anti-inflammatory cream
• Undergoing dermabrasion
• Using carbon dioxide laser
• Trying cryotherapy
• Using microneedling via a tattoo machine

It is important to note that carbon dioxide lasers and cryotherapy may cause swelling and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening), potentially leading to more skin problems.

The best way to prevent white sun spots on the skin is to protect the skin from the sun. This includes wearing sunscreen daily and avoiding tanning beds.

Causes and Treatments of Bumps in the Pubic Area

Most bumps in the pubic area do not require treatment. However, it is essential to consult a doctor if you experience pain, bleeding, or suspect a sexually transmitted infection. Bumps in the pubic area are common but can be uncomfortable and irritating. The treatment depends on the cause of the bumps.

• Take note of the occurrence of pimples or bumps and any factors that may affect the genital area, such as shaving.
• Avoid using scented/perfumed products that come in contact with the genital area, including laundry detergents, soaps, lotions, or powders. If avoiding these products reduces occurrence, you can reintroduce them slowly, observing any adverse reactions.
• Gently wash the area daily with warm water and mild, unperfumed soap or non-soap cleanser.
• Avoid using any cleaning products that could disrupt your pH balance and potentially lead to infection.
• Make sure to pat the area dry before dressing to prevent bacterial or fungal growth.
• Apply a warm compress to relieve irritation or itching. Soak a small towel in warm water, squeeze out the excess, and place it on the skin. Repeat this treatment several times daily.
• Consider using benzoyl peroxide to treat pubic bumps. Medicated body washes with benzoyl peroxide can be helpful. Individuals with sensitive skin should opt for products with five percent or less benzoyl peroxide to avoid irritation. These washes can be used as maintenance before shaving.
• Bumps caused by sexually transmitted diseases may require antibiotic, antifungal, or antiviral treatments. It is crucial to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment rather than attempting self-treatment.
• If you have inflammatory conditions causing bumps or ulcers, you may need an injection or topical ointment.
• Dermatologists may recommend cortisone injections for severe or large bumps.
• Doctors may prescribe antihistamines to control itching.
• Topical medications, including antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral creams/ointments and steroid creams/ointments, may be used as treatments.

Possible Causes of Bumps in the Pubic Area

Genital bumps can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Contact dermatitis: A type of eczema caused by skin-to-skin contact with an allergen or irritant.
• Folliculitis: An infection and swelling of the hair follicles.
• Acne inversa or hidradenitis suppurativa: A potentially severe skin disease that affects the sweat glands in the groin, resulting in recurrent pimple-like bumps and sores containing pus. These sores can be difficult to heal and may cause scarring.
• Molluscum contagiosum: A viral infection in the pubic area. Growths, known as mollusca, are typically small, raised, and white or flesh-colored. They can have a pearly appearance with a dimple in the center.
• Psoriasis: A potentially severe autoimmune condition that causes thick, scaly patches on the skin. Inverse psoriasis, a severe type, commonly affects the pubic area.
• Genital herpes: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can lead to painful or itchy lesions that can be transmitted to others even when not visible.
• Genital warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They appear as flesh-colored, soft bumps that can resemble cauliflower. While they may be itchy, they are typically painless. Warts can disappear without treatment, or a doctor can provide treatment. HPV is a common virus, and nearly all sexually active individuals are expected to contract it at least once in their lives.

In addition to the causes mentioned above, other sexually transmitted infections, bacteria, and yeast can also contribute to bumps in the pubic area.

When to Consult a Doctor

While occasional bumps in the pubic area are common and often benign, it is still important to see a doctor to assess the possibility of a serious condition. Bumps that bleed, have unusual discharge, cause pain, persist, or are associated with fever should be evaluated by a doctor. Regular monitoring of your genital health is crucial to identify any conditions that may require medical attention.

Sources: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, National Health Service, StatPearls, Planned Parenthood, DermNet NZ, CDC