Article: Understanding Small White Spots on Arms or Legs…see more >>>

Article: Understanding Small White Spots on Arms or Legs

Small white spots appearing on the skin of the arms or legs can be caused by several conditions. The most common ones include:

1. Guttate Hypomelanosis: Tiny, white, sun‑induced patches that usually appear on sun‑exposed areas. They are harmless and related to aging and UV exposure.

2. Vitiligo: A condition where melanocytes lose the ability to produce pigment, leading to white patches that can spread. It may require medical evaluation and treatment.

3. Pityriasis Alba: Often seen in children or young adults, these are pale, scaly patches usually associated with mild eczema or dry skin.

4. Tinea Versicolor: A fungal infection causing white or light‑colored spots, typically on the trunk and limbs, due to an overgrowth of yeast on the skin.

5. Post‑inflammatory hypopigmentation: White spots that appear after skin injury, inflammation, or certain rashes.

What to do: If you notice these spots, consider consulting a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. A doctor may examine the skin, ask about exposure to sun, and possibly perform a skin scraping or biopsy to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.