You’re getting dressed and notice them: tiny, smooth, white spots on your arms, legs, or maybe even your face. They don’t itch, they don’t hurt—but they won’t go away, and you have no idea what they are.
Before you spiral into worry, take a breath. In most cases, these white spots are completely harmless—and far more common than you think.
Let’s break down the top 3 causes, what they mean, and when it’s time to see a doctor.
🔍 The Top 3 Causes of White Spots on Skin
1. Sunspots (Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis)
- What it is: Small, flat, porcelain-white spots (2–5 mm) caused by sun damage
- Where they appear: Arms, legs, shoulders—areas exposed to the sun
- Who gets them: Adults over 40 (but can start earlier with sun exposure)
- Why it happens: UV rays damage melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), causing permanent loss of color in tiny patches
- ✅ Harmless? Yes—cosmetic only
- ✅ Prevention: Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (even on cloudy days!)
🌞 Fun fact: These are not a sign of aging—they’re a sign of sun history.
2. Tinea Versicolor (A Mild Fungal Infection)
