Have You Noticed Small White Spots on Your Arms or Legs? Here’s What They Are

Have You Noticed Small White Spots on Your Arms or Legs? Here’s What They Are

 

Feature IGH Tinea Versicolor Vitiligo
Size Small (1-5mm) Variable Variable, often larger
Shape Round/teardrop Irregular patches Irregular patches
Location Sun-exposed areas (arms, legs) Chest, back, shoulders Anywhere, often symmetrical
Texture Smooth May be slightly scaly Smooth
Age of onset Usually after 40 Any age Often starts young
Seasonal Year-round More noticeable in summer Year-round

 

 

Can You Prevent or Treat IGH?

Since IGH is linked to sun exposure and aging, the best prevention is sun protection:

  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily on exposed skin

  • Wear protective clothing when outdoors for long periods

  • Avoid tanning beds entirely

As for treatment: There’s no guaranteed way to make existing IGH spots disappear, but some people have success with: