White spots on face are a common cosmetic concern that can affect people of any age, gender, or skin type. They are usually harmless and do not cause any pain or itching, but they can be a source of embarrassment or low self-esteem for some people. White spots on face can have different causes and appearances, depending on the underlying condition that causes them. Some of the most common causes of white spots on face are:
- Milia: Milia are tiny white cysts that form when keratin, a protein that makes up the outer layer of skin, gets trapped under the skin. They are often seen around the eyes, nose, cheeks, and forehead, and they can affect anyone, but they are more common in newborns, children, and adults with sun-damaged skin. Milia usually go away on their own within a few weeks or months, but they can also be removed by a dermatologist or an esthetician with a special tool or procedure¹.
- Pityriasis alba: Pityriasis alba is a type of eczema that causes round or oval patches of lighter skin to appear on the face, especially on the cheeks. It is more common in children and adolescents with dry or sensitive skin, and it may be triggered by sun exposure, dry weather, or irritation from soap or cosmetics. Pityriasis alba often clears up on its own within a few months or years, but it can also be treated with moisturizers, topical steroids, or sunscreens².
- Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a skin disorder that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment and turn white. It is caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body, but it often affects the face, hands, feet, and genitals. Vitiligo has no cure, but it can be managed with treatments such as topical creams, light therapy, oral medications, or surgery³.
- Tinea versicolor: Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection that causes patches of skin to change color. It is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia that normally lives on the skin. The patches can be white, pink, tan, or brown, depending on the skin tone and the amount of sun exposure. They are usually seen on the chest, back, neck, arms, and face. Tinea versicolor can be treated with antifungal creams, shampoos, or pills.
- Sun spots: Sun spots are flat brown spots that appear on the skin after prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. They are also known as solar lentigines or liver spots. They are more common in older people and people with fair skin. They are usually seen on the face, hands, arms, and chest. Sun spots are not harmful, but they can be a sign of sun damage and increased risk of skin cancer. Sun spots can be prevented by using sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure. They can also be faded with treatments such as bleaching creams, chemical peels,
laser therapy, or cryotherapy.
Natural Remedies for White Spots on Face
If you have white spots on your face and you want to get rid of them naturally, you may want to try some home remedies that can help you lighten or remove them. These remedies use ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or garden, and they can be gentle and effective for mild cases of white spots on face. However,
before trying any home remedy for white spots on face, make sure to do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities. Also,
consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions or allergies that may interfere with the remedy. Here are some of the most popular natural remedies for white spots on face:
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera is a plant that has soothing and healing properties for the skin. It can help moisturize and nourish your skin and reduce inflammation and redness. It can also stimulate the production of new skin cells and improve your skin tone. To use aloe vera for white spots on face,
apply fresh aloe vera gel to the affected area and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Then,
rinse it off with warm water and pat your skin dry. You can do this once or twice a day until you see improvement. - Lemon juice: Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help lighten your skin and fade white spots on face. It can also exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells and impurities. It can also boost your collagen production and improve your skin elasticity. To use lemon juice for white spots on face, squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon and apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and then wash it off with water. You can do this once or twice a day until you see improvement. However, be careful not to use lemon juice if you have sensitive skin or open wounds, as it can cause irritation or stinging. Also, avoid sun exposure after using lemon juice, as it can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for the skin. It can help reduce inflammation and infection and improve your skin complexion. It can also stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. To use turmeric for white spots on face, mix some turmeric powder with some water or milk to make a paste. Then, apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, rinse it off with water and pat your skin dry. You can do this once or twice a day until you see improvement.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and emollient that can help hydrate and soften your skin. It can also help heal your skin and prevent infection and inflammation. It can also stimulate the production of new skin cells and improve your skin texture. To use coconut oil for white spots on face, warm some coconut oil in your palms and massage it gently into the affected area. Leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning with warm water. You can do this every night until you see improvement.
- Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural toner and astringent that can help balance your skin pH and remove excess oil and dirt from your pores. It can also help exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells and impurities. It can also lighten your skin and fade white spots on face. To use apple cider vinegar for white spots on face, dilute some apple cider vinegar with some water in a 1:1 ratio. Then, apply the solution to the affected area with a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and then wash it off with water. You can do this once or twice a day until you see improvement.