Skin discoloration is a common problem whereby some people may develop black spots or red patches on the skin. There are some spots that can raise a lot of concern since they can result in an infection.
Get more insight about the causes of white spots on the skin, how sun exposure leads to white spots development, dry spots, best cream for white spots, and other ways of getting rid of white spots.
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What Causes White Spots On Skin?
White Spots On Skin Causes Include:
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Malnutrition
Malnutrition according to research shows that it leads to the development of white or black spots on the skin of a person. There are some vital minerals and elements such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E that help in maintaining healthy skin.
Insufficiency of these minerals and elements can result in the appearance of white patches on the skin. Although these changes in skin appearance are harmless, it is important to note that eating a properly balanced diet will help to curb the development of these spots.
Adopt a properly balanced diet and even consult a professional dermatologist to help in the treatment of white patches or spots that have been infected.
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Nevus Depigmentosus
The skin problem results in the development of white spots that are permanent and stable as compared to those spots that occur due to vitiligo. It makes the hairs that are found on the skin completely turn white since the skin is not totally achromatic.
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Hypopigmentation
This condition results in loss of skin color. The skin problem occurs the cells known as melanocytes for producing skin pigment get depleted or as a result of a decrease in tyrosine amino acid in the outer layer of the skin.
The insufficiencies of the mentioned elements result in a reduction in the production of melanin enhance the white spots on the skin occurs due to depletion of melanin in the skin outer layer.
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Pityriasis Alba
The condition that results in loss of skin color is quite common in teenagers and children. The white spots are mainly marked by being dry, scaly white patches on facial skin in most cases. During the summer season, the spots are quite visible due to skin tanning.
Also, during the winter seasons, the white patches on the skin are more of being scaly and dry. Sometimes a person may experience the formation of red spots that turn pale at a later stage. These blemishes are quite common in the neck, shoulders, upper arms, and face.
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Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis
The skin problem results in the appearance of white spots that are flat in shape and somehow similar to idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. Some of these blemishes can be smooth and scaly to some extent. The condition is quite common among women and people with fair skin tone. Also, people with dark skin can develop these spots.
The appearance of these spots is usually associated with aging and sometimes due to hereditary factors. The spots are quite common in the regions that are exposed to the sun for long hours like the face, forearms, shoulders, and shins.
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Tinea Versicolor
This is a skin condition that is common and it is known to be caused by the yeast known as Malassezia which cohabit on the surface of the skin. The overgrowths of the yeast are triggered by the moist, warm, and oily skin which causes the development of red-brown spots.
There are also some factors that are known to stimulate an overgrowth of yeast on the skin that result in the development of white spots. These factors are; warm and humid climate, excessive sweating, oily skin, malnutrition, pregnancy, medications such as corticosteroids.
It is recommended to consult a dermatologist if the symptoms keep on recurring and in the case of mild cases the use of antifungal medications such as terbinafine, clotrimazole, or miconazole may be used to treat the infection.
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Vitiligo
The condition results in loss of skin melanin. When melanocytes cells are damaged or destructed, the skin of a person loses its pigment. There are certain autoimmune diseases that are said to be known for getting rid of these melanocyte cells.
These spots are quite common in the body folds and the region of the body that are exposed to the atmosphere. The condition can also be observed in the areas that were previously exposed to injuries or trauma.
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Lichen Sclerosis
The condition mainly happens on the skin around the vulva, penis or anus. The condition is marked by skin thinning and the appearance of white patches that are visible. These patches may sometimes be localized at one particular place or keep on spreading to the adjacent area.
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Morphea
The condition results in the thickening and hardening of the outer layer of the skin. The research shows that the condition may cause the appearance of red and purple patches on the surface of the skin, especially on the torso, arms, and legs. The color of the spots keeps on changing from red, to brown and finally white.
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Skin Damage
This could be due to burns, infections, or a problem with a laser. Use of laser treatment without proper treatment can result in the development of white bumps on the skin. Hair removal and scars removal should only be done by a specialist since the activity is on the rise in today’s world.
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Nevus Achromicus
The condition results in hypopigmented or depigmented skin areas that are generally marked by white spots on skin development. The condition is caused by the destruction of cells producing melanin. These white or light-colored spots are permanent, inborn, unlike vitiligo.
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Vitamins & Microelements Deficiencies
Components of vitamins such as vitamin D, E, B12 play an important role in determining the health of the skin. Their lack of or insufficiencies in the diet can result in the appearance of white spots. Adoption of a proper diet will help to cease these blemishes on the skin.
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Eczema
The skin problem results in the development of red and painful rashes on the surface of the skin. Although it happens on the skin of children, it can also continue up to adulthood. An individual suffering from the condition may experience the development of white patches.
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Milia
The skin is made of a protein substance known as keratin and according to experts; it has been proven that excessive accumulation of these substances on the outer layer of the skin can get trapped in the skin pores.
In the process of accumulation, the skin will begin to form tiny white-colored cysts which are seen on most occasions among children and even newborns. An individual may also experience the formation of white spots on the skin due to a burn, sun damage, or poison ivy.
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Poikiloderma of Civatte
This is a chronic skin condition or problem that is caused by excessive or prolonged exposure to the sun. The spots are harmless and non-cancerous. The condition usually results in the development of white patches and it is also known to affect individuals with fair-skinned adults.
White Spots on Skin from Tanning
According to studies, people with the habit of frequent tanning on the bed are likely to experience the appearance of white spots that are more visible especially to people with tan skin tone.
Some of the common causes of white spots on the skin from tanning include:
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Scars
Scar tissues are the common cause of white spots on the body. The scarred region does not have melanin making it hard to scarred the surface by tanning. Also, some bites from insects can result in the appearance of white spots in case they are surgically treated.
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Skin Sensitivity
There are certain medications that are known to increase the sensitivity of the skin and the skin’s natural reaction to UV light. Therefore, it is important to get advice from a physician or pharmacist about the side effects of the sun after using the drugs.
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Genetic
Most white spot appearances are linked to genetic properties. Prolonged exposure to strong UV rays from the sun can trigger the immune system to produce less melanin in the skin cells and in the process, you may experience white spot development.
White Spots On Skin Fungus
In the event that tanning in a tanning bed, growth could be the reason for your white spots. Tanning beds are known to be reproducing reason for parasites because of the way that they are regularly moist situations where many bodies have sweat and interact with a similar surface.
Once the tanning lights are off, microscopic organisms can duplicate in the obscured, moist space. While it’s not precisely clear how frequently parasite is contracted from tanning informal lodging tanning salons have strict sanitation strategies, it merits looking at with your specialist in case you’re suspicious.
Small White Spots On Arms
Have you noticed small, white, pimple-like bumps on the back of your arms? In case those small spots on the arms are not becoming large in size or spreading, there is no need to worry. Some of the common causes of these types of blemishes include the following:
- Keratosis pilaris
- Vitiligo
- Tinea Versicolor
- Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation caused by skin lightening
- allergic reactions to certain foods and medicines
White Spots On Face of Child
The appearance of white spots on the facial skin of children under the age of 16years is quite common and it raises concern among many family members. These white patches are caused by many factors where some are mild and others are extreme.
Some of the common causes include:
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Pityriasis Alba
This is one of the common causes of white spots on the face that appear due to temporary cosmetic impairment. The spots become more visible during the summer seasons due to skin tanning by the sun. Children suffering from eczema are more susceptible to getting this condition.
Lack of iron in the diet, poor skin hygiene and prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun play a vital role in stimulating the development of these skin blemishes.
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Pityriasis Versicolor
This skin condition is caused by fungi and it is said to be common in areas where the weather is more hot and humid. The skin problem happens at any age but most teenagers are more susceptible to getting the problem.
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Vitiligo Vulgaris
In medical terms, it is also known as leukoderma. It occurs as white patches on any part of the body. The exact cause of the skin problem is still unknown but most experts believed it is caused by autoimmune skin diseases.
The autoimmune disease destroys the melanocytes and causes the white patches, therefore some of the common conditions that lead to the appearance of white spots or patches on the skin include; diabetes, thyroid problems, and certain forms of anemia.
White Spots On My Neck
There are so many reasons behind the appearance of white dots on the neck skin that keep on spreading to the adjacent areas. These blemishes according to experts not only affect the neck region but they can also the other parts of the body.
What causes blackheads or white spots on the back of the neck? Here are some of the common causes of white spots on the neck regardless of your age or race. They include:
- Fungal infections
- Vitiligo
- Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun
- Insufficiencies of vitamin B12 in the diet
- Skin tanning
- Autoimmune diseases
- Effect of pregnancies
Bleach Spots on Skin
Skin lightening is more popular nowadays to enable an individual to attain a fairer skin complexion that is glowing. These skin bleaching products contain some chemical contents that inhibit melanin production and make the skin appear lighter.
To some extent, these products have some negative side effects if not used or handle with proper care and precautions. An individual may experience skin burning, development of rashes, and the appearance of white patches on the skin.
Here are some ways to prevent such a circumstance from happening to the skin. These ways include:
- Do not bleach dry skin since these skin lightening products contain chemicals that dry the skin further and may also trigger the formation of rashes.
- Do not bleach the skin more frequently.
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight after applying the lightening cream on the face for about 8 hours.
- Do not bleach the skin after a hot and steamy shower.
- Do not use soap or any facial washing detergents after applying the bleaching cream on the facial skin.
- Use a well-hydrated soothing moisturizer after bleaching to avoid skin dryness and itching effect.
White Spots on Skin Pictures
Most of the pictures in this article try to bring out the underlying causes of white spots or white patches on the skin. It is important to study them carefully so that it is easier to identify the cause of the white spots on the skin.
Some of the common causes of white spots on the skin shown by the pictures or images in this article include the following:
- Tinea Versicolor
- Lichen sclerosis
- Eczema
- Pityriasis alba
- Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis
- Vitiligo
Cream for White Spots on Skin
Can eczema be white patches? What causes brown spots on the skin? What the best creams for getting rid of white or red or blackheads on the skin? Some of the common creams to use in treating white spots include:
- Resist Cellular Defense Daily Moisturizer SPF 25
- Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
- MATTE-FINISH BROAD SPECTRUM SUN PROTECTION: Say goodbye to heavy, greasy sunscreen! This ultra-lightweight, oil-free hydrating moisturizer with SPF 30 defends your skin against harmful UVA & UVB rays while controlling excess oil & shine.
- Paula's Choice SKIN BALANCING Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense is a daytime SPF moisturizer that imparts essential hydration without weighing down skin. It has a soft matte finish that helps keep excess shine in check. Green tea & willow bark extracts calm signs of sensitivity and redness for a more even-toned complexion.
- Use Paula's Choice SKIN BALANCING Ultra-Sheer Daily SPF 30 daily as part of your morning skin care routine along with your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, serums, spot treatments, exfoliator, and eye creams as needed.
- Paula's Choice products are made with YOUR SKIN in mind. Whatever your skincare concern, whether dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin; we've got a treatment line for you. The search for amazing skin care ends here. Finally, you found it.
- Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. No fragrance, no parabens, no fluff. Just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
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How to Get Rid Of White Spots On Skin?
Some of the common ways to help get rid of white spots on the skin include:
White Spots On Skin Treatment
These treatments include:
- Topical creams
These creams are only prescribed by a professional dermatologist since the cream works by bleaching the skin so that the area affected looks similar to the surrounding. Some of the common creams prescribed by the dermatologist are corticosteroids, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and L-Scorbic acid (vitamin C).
- Light treatments
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments and laser treatments happen to be the only treatments that help to reduce the appearance of white spots visibility on the skin. They cause some damage to the skin in order to encourage the growth of new skin collagen in the affected region.
- Prescription medications
These medications are only done by a professional in the medical area and they are aimed at reducing the appearance of white spots. The medical professional will examine the underlying cause of the white spot development before administering the drugs.
- Dermabrasion
It is the only treatment that has been recommended to get rid of white spots on the skin by some group of professional dermatologists. Dermabrasion works by scrubbing or exfoliating the outer layer of the skin in order to get rid of the blemishes. It works well with the skin of the face.
Natural Remedies for White Spots on Skin
These natural remedies include:
- Coconut Oil Massage
Coconut oil is used to treatment of white spots or black spots on the skin. The use of lotions or creams made of coconut oils helps to moisturize the skin and improves blood circulation. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Premium Quality Fractionated Coconut Oil - It is a fraction of the coconut oil from which almost all the long chain triglycerides are removed, thus leaving mainly the medium chain triglycerides and making it a great MCT oil. It is odorless, clear to yellow tint and No greasy feelings, does not stain and easily washes out of clothing and sheets. Does not become solid like regular coconut oil but keeps all the great properties. It has very long shelf life
- Other Uses: Coconut oil one of the most versatile oils. It's used as moisturizer, in recipes for tooth paste, as lip balm and in coconut shampoo. It's also used as a natural deodorant, for face wash, as hair conditioner, as eye makeup remover, as shaving cream, in sunburn remedies, for massage, aromatherapy and many other household uses and benefits
- Safety Warning: For external use only. Rub a very small amount on the inside of your elbow area to test for any allergic reaction before use. Avoid contact with eyes, keep out of the reach of children. If pregnant, consult with your health care provider before use
- Fractionated Coconut Oil is also a great carrier for blending with essential oils. It can be mixed with other more expensive carrier oils. It's excellent as a massage oil and used in aromatherapy recipes
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Directions
- Using the coconut oils, massage the affected skin on a daily basis
- Allow the oil to stay on the skin overnight
- Continue with the steps until the symptoms disappear
- Aloe Vera
The gel of the plant is known to have healing properties and nutrients that help to get rid of white spots and keep your skin hydrated.
- Highest Quality - to ensure freshness our Aloe is proudly grown here in Southern Texas. NSF Organic & IASC Certified.
- Harvested For Us - from real freshly cut aloe leaves, not powder - making it one of the purest and strongest on the market. For that reason please test on less sensitive areas first to make sure no reactions occur (before you apply to your face)
- The Difference in Skin Treated with Seven Minerals Aloe Gel is Striking. Thanks to 100% natural thickener Agar (instead of Xanthan or Carbomer), it absorbs rapidly with no sticky residue - leaving your skin smooth and silky
- Discover Nature's Miracle Plant - Soothe your sunburn, treat your cuts, clear up your rashes, take the sting out of bites, calm your shaving burn and more!
- Repair and Soothe your Skin Daily - Our Pure Aloe Vera Gel is a clear, slightly thinner gel - an excellent daily treatment for face, skin & hair. Regular use soothes the skin leaving it soft and supple with a healthy glow
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Directions
- Cut open the leaf and extract the gel present inside.
- Apply this on the affected area and leave it for a few hours.
- Ammi Visnaga
According to the studies and some health publications, it is said to contain some component of khellin that is helpful in getting rid of white spots on the skin that are caused by vitiligo.
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- Essential Oils
Some of the common essential oils include:
- Frankincense Essential Oil
This oil is recommended in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine to help in getting rid of white pimples or black spots on the skin caused by psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.
- FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL FOR BODY COMFORT. Frankincense Oil may help comfort overworked muscles. Dilute with a Carrier Oil and massage targeted areas with a roller massage ball.
- FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL FOR SKIN. Frankincense Oil is used in organic skincare for its skin-related properties. Apply with a Carrier Oil for face and skin.
- PROMOTES A CALM ENVIRONMENT. Frankincense Oil creates a soothing atmosphere that can contribute to a sense of calmness. Diffuse in a diffuser to enhance your surroundings.
- VERSATILE AND COMPLEMENTARY. Frankincense Oil and Myrrh Oil blends well providing a comforting effect. Blend with Myrrh Oil for meditative purposes.
- IDEAL FOR DIY. Add Organic Frankincense Oil to face cream, candles, incense, resin, essential oil for pain roll on and soap making for a calming touch. Dilution is recommended for facial use.
- QUALITY ASSURED FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND. Gya Labs Frankincense Oil is 100% Natural and undergoes strict quality controls.
- EXPERTLY BOTTLED & PACKAGED. Gya Labs Essential Oils are crafted with the finest botanicals. Our oils are carefully handled to deliver a premium experience for you to enjoy.
- A NAME YOU CAN TRUST IN AROMATHERAPY OILS. Gya Labs Frankincense Essential Oil is made from the finest Ethiopian Frankincense resin.
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- Black Pepper Essential Oil
It contains piperine that is said to be used in the activation of the inactive melanocytes thus bring to normal the skin color and disappearance of white spots.
- A SPICY REMEDY FOR COMFORT. Our potent black pepper essential oil offers a warming sensation that may contribute to a comforting experience. Massage 2-3 drops of organic black pepper oil with a carrier oil for a soothing sensation as desired.
- INVIGORATING AROMATIC EXPERIENCE. Our bold and spicy black pepper essential oil, when diffused, offers a strong and warm aroma that may create an invigorating atmosphere.
- PROMOTE AROMATIC WELLNESS. Our black pepper essential oil, combined with other beneficial herbs, may help support overall well-being. Dilute 3 drops of pepper oil with a carrier oil to create a spicy roll-on blend for a stimulating aroma.
- ENHANCE YOUR DIY SELF-CARE ROUTINE. Elevate your self-care products with the addition of black pepper essential oil, such as in essential oil black pepper massage oil and skin serums. Diffuse before bedtime for relaxing environment.
- SYNERGISTIC BLENDING FOR WELLNESS. Our black pepper oil blends with other complementary scents like clove bud oil and bergamot oil. Add 2 drops of each oil to your diffuser and diffuse for 30 minutes.
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- Bergamot Essential Oil
It plays the role of a natural photosensitizer that helps to increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV light and also promotes the production of melanin of the skin.
- Certified Organic Bergamot Oil - Cliganic organic essential oils are proudly USDA organic certified to ensure ultimate quality and integrity.
- 100% Pure, Single Ingredient Oil - Cliganic organic essential oils are a single-ingredient product. No synthetic additives, ever.
- Multipurpose Essential Oil – Cliganic essential oils are suitable for aromatherapy diffuser and have many other great uses and benefits.
- 3rd Party Tested for Purity - Each batch is being tested for purity by a 3rd Party Independent Lab.
- Non-GMO Certified, Vegan & Cruelty-Free - Free from additives, Cliganic aromatherapy oils are proudly non-gmo project verified, certified vegan and cruelty-free.
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- Tea Tree Oil
It has the ability to darken white spots caused by vitiligo since it is marked by properties of being immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory.
- TEA TREE OIL FOR NAILS may be good for the appearance of toenails and fingernails. Apply 2 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil drops for nails with a Carrier Oil on clean nails.
- TEA TREE OIL FOR FACE is popular for skin use in balancing oily-looking complexions. Add few drops tea tree oil for skin and body to make melaleuca oil Face Wash, skin spray, and skin roll-on.
- TEA TREE OIL FOR HAIR may have benefits promoting fuller-looking hair. Dilute 3 drops of Tea Tree Oil for scalp and hair with Carrier Oil to make tea-tree oil conditioner or mix as shampoo and scalp treatment.
- BLENDS WELL WITH OTHER ORGANIC OILS. Australian Tea Tree Oil blends perfectly with oils such as Lemon Essential Oil. Diffuse 2 drops of aceite de arbol de te and Lemon Oil to freshen stale spaces.
- IDEAL FOR DIY. Teatree oil Diffuser Essential Oils Tea Tree makes clarifying DIY tee tree oil products, such as soap, body wash & foot soak. Add 2 drops of aromatherapy tea tree oul in a diffuser for 30 minutes.
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- Piece Of Papaya
It contains carotene that helps to restore skin pigment and also revive melanin production. Rub the piece of papaya directly on the white spots and allow it to stay for about 20minutes. Rinse the area with cold water.
- Ginger
It helps to improve blood circulation in the body and in the process helps to get rid of white spots that are caused by vitiligo. Place a paste of ginger on the affected area for sometimes and also it is advisable to drink plenty of juice from the mixture of ginger and mint leaves for some days.
- Red Clay
The research shows that the clay has a high content of copper minerals. Mix some of the amounts of red clay with ginger juice and paste It on the affected site of the skin. All it to dry on the skin and then wash it. Repeat the process daily until there is an improvement.
- COSMETIC GRADE: Extra Fine Grade High Quality Clay, 100% Pure Moroccan Clay Powder
- SEAL AND STORE: Comes in a resealable bag with 2 LBS of clay!
- SKIN REJUVENATION: No need for an expensive kit, this Moroccan Clay does it all; Have fun with DIY projects at a cheaper cost, easily whip up mud face and hair masks, teeth cleaners, clay baths, acne treatments, homemade soap and shampoos, and even deodorant
- PERSONAL CARE: Great for use in Facial Masks, Face and Body Scrubs, Lotions, Creams, Hair Care Products , Pressed Powders, Liquid Foundations, Mascara and More!
- EXFOLIATION: Great for gentle skin exfoliation! Exfoliate all the dead skin cells for a smoother silkier picture perfect skin finish. For external use only.
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- Ginkgo Biloba
The herb according to experts is said to have antioxidant properties that help to boost the immune system of the body. It can also be used to restore the skin pigment that has been lost due to various skin conditions.
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Further References and Sources
- What Are the Causes of White Spots on Tan Skin? http://www.livestrong.com/article/197723-what-are-the-causes-of-white-spots-on-tan-skin/
- White Spots on the Skin: http://skincare.lovetoknow.com/White_Spots_on_Skin
- White Spots on the Skin: http://www.md-health.com/White-Spots-On-Skin.html
- Reasons For White Skin Patches In Children: http://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/reasons-for-white-skin-patches-in-children-237702-4.html
- How to Get Rid of White Spots on the Face of Babies and Kids? http://www.bumpsnbaby.com/how-get-rid-white-spots-face/