White spots refer to spots on the face that appear lighter compared to the surrounding skin of the face. They can be seen as small or large spots on the face. White spots can also appear on the skin of other body parts besides the face in some cases, depending on the reason behind it. There are several reasons behind white spots on face. The first of these may be vitiligo. Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes white spots on the skin and can also affect the hair. This happens when the melanin-producing cells in the body stop functioning or die. This is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune cells begin to destroy melanocytes, that is, the cells that produce melanin pigment that gives the skin color. Individuals with a family history of this condition or those who already suffer from another autoimmune disease are at risk. Certain factors such as stress, skin injuries, sunburn and chemical exposure are some of the triggering factors behind vitiligo. The second reason behind white spots can be pityriasis alba. It is a form of eczema/dermatitis (skin condition that causes inflamed, itchy patches of skin) that often affects children and adolescents. Initially, red spots appear on the skin covered with scales. When these areas improve, areas of light color compared to the skin are left in place. It usually affects the skin of the face, shoulders, arms and abdomen. The exact cause behind this condition is unknown. However, there are some factors that can predispose someone to it. These include excessive sun exposure, excessive use of corticosteroids on the skin and sensitive skin. Individuals with a family history of atopy or who themselves suffer from atopy (genetic predisposition to allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and asthma) are at greater risk. Another cause is pityriasis versicolor. It is also known as tinea versicolor. It is a fungal infection of the skin. It is caused by overgrowth of the skin fungus Malassezia globosa, which normally occurs on healthy skin without causing any damage. This fungus can overgrow in some people due to several factors, such as excessive sweating, a warm, moist environment and oily skin. The white spots that appear in this condition may be covered with fine scales. Itching may occur in these areas, but is mild. There is exacerbation of this condition due to sun exposure and hot, humid weather, while relief is seen in cold weather.
The next cause may be milia. Milia refers to a skin condition that causes small white bumps on the skin, usually on the face. They mainly appear on the cheeks, forehead, eyelid and under the eyes and nose. In addition to the face, they can occur in the mouth, arms, legs, chest and genitals. They appear in clusters. Sometimes itching can be felt, but this is not painful. Milia are caused by dead skin cells remaining beneath the skin surface. From time to time, dead skin cells are removed from the body and replaced by new cells. When dead skin cells are not shed, but become trapped under the new skin, they tend to form milia. Skin damage from injury, sun exposure, burns, blisters (fluid-filled eruptions) on the skin, and long-term use of creams containing steroids predispose one to milia formation. In some cases, milia are present from birth, which is known as congenital milia. Other causes include some forms of nevi such as nevus depigmentosus, piebaldism, and idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. Nevus depigmentosus, also called nevus achromicus, is a congenital condition with hypopigmented spots on the skin. Piebaldism is a genetic condition in which white patches develop on the skin and hair due to the absence of melanocyte cells in the affected area. In most cases, a patch of white hair appears near the forehead. Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a condition in which round or oval patches of hypopigmentation appear due to genetic factors, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, skin trauma, autoimmune activity, or changes in the skin that occur with aging. Subsequently, fungal infections (a type of fungus) can sometimes cause white spots. Apart from the above reasons, deficiency of certain vitamins (such as B12, D and E) and calcium can also lead to white spots on the face.
Homeopathic treatment
Homeopathy appears to be very effective in treating numerous skin complaints, including white spots on the face. Homeopathic remedies stop the further progression of the number of white spots on the face and also prevent the size of these spots from increasing. These medications help in gradually pigmenting the already present spots and also stop their progression. Homeopathic medicines also treat the itching if present in the white patches, which can occur with a fungal infection. Homeopathic medicines are selected individually to treat each case of white spots on the face. Although these medicines are safe to use, it is recommended to take any medicine after your case has been fully assessed by a homeopathic doctor. Self-medication should not be done under any circumstances.
Homeopathic medicines for white spots on face
1. Calcarea Carb – Top medicine
Calcarea carb is a leading homeopathic medicine for the treatment of light spots on the face. It is also recommended for milky white spots with dark edges on the skin. There may be swelling on the cheeks near the light spots. The face may feel cold. The face is oily in most cases. This medicine is well indicated for cases of tinea and vitiligo. There is a general tendency to sweat more when this medicine is needed.
2. Arsenic album
Arsenic Album is the next well indicated drug for the treatment of white spots on the face. In cases where this is necessary, the skin is very dry and rough. Scales may appear on the spots on the skin. Itching may also be present in addition to the above characteristics. In some cases, a burning and stinging sensation is felt in the affected area.
3. Natrum carbohydrates
Natrum Carb is another medicine in the list for treating white spots on the face. A heated sensation may be felt on the face where this medicine is needed. The cheeks may be swollen. The face may be pale with blue rings around the eyes. Itching can be felt on the skin. The skin generally becomes rough, dry and cracked.
4. Silicea
Silicea is beneficial for treating white spots when the face is also pale and oily. A burning sensation is felt around the mouth. The skin of the face can develop cracks. Itching and stinging of the face may occur. The skin can be painful and sensitive. There is a tendency to increased sweating.
5. Arsenicum Sulf Flavum
This medicine is a top class medicine for treating white spots caused by vitiligo. In cases where this is necessary, the skin may be flaky and dry and cracks may appear in the skin. One feels itching on the skin.
6. Sulfur
Sulfur is an effective medicine to treat white spots and itching on the face, which worsen at night. Washing the face makes the itching worse. After scratching the affected part, a burning sensation is felt on the face. The skin is generally dry and flaky. In addition to the above complaints, there may be a heated feeling in various parts of the body.