how to get rid of white spots on skin from sun - #15079
I am dealing with this issue that’s kinda driving me nuts. I’ve been spending too much time at the beach this summer, and now I got these white spots on my skin from sun exposure. Like, they popped up after I thought I was getting a nice tan but instead, my skin reacted weird. I tried using sunscreen every day but evidently not enough. I don’t even know if my sunscreen was strong enough! The white spots are mostly on my shoulders and back, and sometimes I feel like they’re becoming more noticeable. I’ve heard people talk about how to get rid of white spots on skin from sun but I have no idea what to do first. Should I see a dermatologist or just try some over-the-counter creams? I am also worried about whether this is permanent or just a temporary thing. Are there, like, home remedies for how to get rid of white spots on skin from sun? It’s hard not to feel self-conscious when wearing tank tops now, you know? I read that sometimes these white spots can be caused by skin damage but isn’t that something that you can recover from? How do I know if I need a stronger treatment? Anyone else gone through this and found a good way to deal with it? Just trying to figure out how to get rid of white spots on skin from sun before summer ends!
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Doctors’ responses
White spots on the skin after sun exposure might indicate a condition known as idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, a benign skin condition that manifests following chronic sun exposure. These spots are generally harmless but can be visually bothersome. To address these spots, you might want to start with moisturizing creams that contain ingredients like lactic acid or urea, which can help smooth the skin surface and might aid in minimizing the contrast between the spots and your natural skin tone. Yet, they may not completely “get rid” of the spots, but they can sometimes help improve the overall appearance of your skin.
Sunscreen application is critical — it helps prevent these spots from developing or becoming more noticeable. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every couple of hours when out in the sun, especially after swimming or sweating. Ensure you’re using enough sunscreen; a lot of people don’t apply enough or evenly. If you’re concerned about whether your sunscreen was strong enough, check if it covers both UVA and UVB rays.
Some people also consider using cosmetic options like self-tanning lotions to blend the white spots with the rest of their skin, though this is more about cosmetically managing the appearance rather than treating the spots.
If the spots persist or increase, or you’re concerned, it might be worth seeing a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation to rule out any other underlying conditions, such as fungal infections like tinea versicolor, or vitiligo — these may present similarly but require different management strategies. Treatments from a healthcare professional, like microdermabrasion, chemical peels or laser therapy could also be discussed for persistent cases.
Remember, while home remedies might sometimes provide temporary relief, they can’t guarantee complete disappearance of such spots. If you’re keen on trying any home methods, do handle them cautiously to avoid further skin irritation. In any case, prioritizing skin protection from the sun remains a key measure to prevent worsening or recurrence.
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