Those white patches on the skin may not be what you think

When faced with skin and health issues, many of us make attempts to reach the deepest corners of the internet and find out what the problem potentially may be. This results in self-diagnosis that often presents itself as being much more serious than it is in reality. As such, have you ever tried to Google what that patchy skin on your face and body indicate? It is a common mistake for people to think that these white spots are signs of a serious skin disorder, when in fact they are often just dry patches caused by insufficient moisturisation. 

In a recent video, content creator and dermatologist Dr Jushya Bhatia Sarin suggests that contrary to popular belief, these patches may not signify a condition like vitiligo but could instead be a result of inadequate moisturiser use. She adds that proper hydration and skincare routines can play a crucial role in preventing and treating these patches. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dr. Jushya Bhatia Sarin (@dr.jushya_sarinskin) 

Dr Ramesh, dermatologist at Athreya Hospital says, “While white patches can occur due to both dry skin and vitiligo, there are key differences for identification.”

Dry skin patches, he adds, tend to be flaky, and slightly raised and may improve with proper moisturisation. In some cases, patients might have associated numbness and nerve thickening too. Vitiligo patches, on the other hand, are usually smooth, well-defined, and milky or chalky white. A family history of vitiligo can also be a clue. 

Common signs and symptoms of dry skin that may lead to the appearance of white patches

Dry skin often presents with several symptoms before white patches develop, Dr Ramesh shares. These include:

• Increased dryness and roughness of the skin
• Flaking or scaling, particularly noticeable on the arms, legs, and hands
• Itching, which can worsen with scratching
• Peeling of the skin
• Tightness or discomfort, especially after showering or bathing
• In severe cases, cracking of the skin can occur, which can be painful

Relationship between moisture levels in the skin and the development of white patches

Healthy skin relies on a balanced moisture level. When the skin barrier weakens due to dryness, it loses its ability to retain water. 

This dehydration leads to the following problems, Dr Ramesh states:

Increased dead skin cell accumulation: Dead cells accumulate on the surface, appearing as white flakes or patches.

Inflammation: Dryness can trigger mild inflammation, further disrupting the skin barrier and worsening the white patch appearance.

Increased flakiness and peeling: As the skin struggles to maintain hydration, it sheds dead cells more rapidly, leading to white flakes and potential peeling, exposing underlying paler skin.

Dr Ramesh, dermatologist at Athreya Hospital says, “While white patches can occur due to both dry skin and vitiligo, there are key differences for identification.” (Source: Freepik)

Effective skincare practices or moisturising techniques to prevent or treat white patches caused by dryness

According to Dr Ramesh, integrating the following techniques to your skincare regimen can significantly help avoid patchy skin:

Gentle cleansing

Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that strip away natural oils. Opt for fragrance-free, gentle cleansers.

Moisturise regularly

Use a fragrance-free, emollient moisturiser suitable for your skin type. Apply liberally after showering and throughout the day, especially on hands and elbows.

Opt for a humidifier

Consider getting a humidifier, especially in dry climates or winter months, to add moisture to the air and prevent further drying.

Identify and address underlying causes

If medications or skin conditions contribute to dryness, consult a dermatologist for proper management.

Modify your lifestyle 

Drink plenty of water, manage stress, and limit hot showers or baths, which can worsen dryness.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.