AskDocDoc
/
/
/
white patches on forehead
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16865
4 days ago
24

white patches on forehead - #16865

Manvi

I am noticing these white patches on my forehead and they seem to be getting bigger, which is really freaking me out. A few months ago, I thought it was just dry skin or maybe even a sunburn because I spent a lot of time outdoors, but I've tried all kinds of moisturizers, even some natural remedies, and nothing's worked. I mean, these white patches on my forehead don't hurt or itch, but they just look so weird and I’m kinda self-conscious about it, you know? I went to my primary care doc who mentioned it could be vitiligo or just skin discoloration and told me to see a dermatologist, but I'm still waiting on that appointment. What I don’t get is, why have they suddenly appeared and why only on my forehead? I have no clue if someone in my family has had anything like this, and it's just confusing! I've read a bit on the internet and people talk about how white patches on forehead can be linked to some underlying conditions or might even be related to stress or diet, but none of that sounds right for me. I'm really just hoping someone here has gone through this too and can shed some light. Is there anything I should do while waiting for the derm appt or things to absolutely avoid?

FREE
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

White patches on the skin can indeed be concerning when they start growing, and there are several possible causes to consider. The most common reason, like your primary care doctor mentioned, might be vitiligo, which is a condition where the skin loses pigment cells, resulting in white patches. These patches can appear on the forehead due to increased sun exposure, genetic predisposition, or autoimmune factors, but pinpointing a single cause isn’t always straightforward. Another potential cause could be a fungal infection like tinea versicolor, which can also produce white areas on the skin, often responding to antifungal treatments. Sun exposure may exacerbate the visibility of these patches since the surrounding skin tan’s while the affected area does not. Although it’s less likely without itching or discomfort, it’s worth keeping in mind. In terms of practical steps before your dermatologist appointment, it’s essential to protect the affected area from any further sun exposure using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This can prevent the condition from worsening or making the patches more visible. Avoiding harsh skincare products that can irritate or dry out the skin is also wise, as is sticking to a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. While it’s tempting, try not to use over-the-counter skin lighteners or similar products without professional guidance, as they may cause more harm than good. Continue with a balanced diet, though no direct link to diet issues has been solidly proven in this context and manage any stress, as stress can potentially influence various skin conditions. It’s good you’ve already made an appointment with a dermatologist; they can provide more directed care. If these patches start changing more rapidly, or if you develop new symptoms, such as new areas appearing elsewhere on the body, visiting a healthcare provider sooner would be advised.

7087 answered questions
76% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions