We all know that sun exposure can cause brown freckles to appear on our skin, but did you know too much sun can also cause white spots to develop?

The white spots are known medically as idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (IGH) and most commonly affect the legs, arms, upper back/shoulders, and face.

What's the difference between white and brown freckles?

The white freckles of IGH are due to a decrease in melanin (pigment) in the skin. This localised loss of pigment occurs following damage to the skin cell's DNA, caused by cumulative exposure to ultraviolet light.

Brown freckles, on the other hand, are due to an increase in melanin. This excess of pigment leads to hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) – this is also caused by damage to the DNA of the skin cells.

Both types of freckles are benign and harmless and do not indicate an increased risk of skin cancer. IGH is not related to vitiligo in which melanin producing cells (melanocytes) die or are unable to function properly and no longer form melanin.

Who is affected by IHG?

IHG is most commonly seen in fair-skinned people, but can also be seen in older dark-skinned individuals.

It is a condition which tends to manifest in a person's 30s or 40s (in those with pale skin) and worsen with age. This is thought to be because of the cumulative effect of sun exposure over the years, rather than just as a result of aging.

However, there is evidence of a genetic component as IHG has been known to run in families.

The small white spots of IHG are usually seen first along the anterior portion of the legs. The condition often affects women earlier than men, possibly because their legs are more exposed.

How can IHG be treated?

IHG is harmless and does not require treating; however, you may find the white spots unsightly, especially if you have darker skin. Sometimes the white freckles form in clusters making them more noticeable and they will also be more visible when you have a suntan.

In the past, IHG has been treated with creams such as retinoids and steroids (and also with natural remedies such as ginger and figs), but these have limited efficacy.

In 2014, a clinical trial was run to test the effectiveness of a phenol-based chemical solution – the same as is used for facial peels. The results were very encouraging, with repigmentation noted in 64% of IGH macules (white spots).

Spot peeling was carried out on 20 patients with a total of 139 IGH macules. 88% phenol was applied with an ear bud once a month and patients were assessed both subjectively and objectively after every session and at the end of three months of therapy.

The researchers concluded that chemical peeling is a “safe, simple, cost-effective, outpatient procedure for IGH”.

Chemical Peel at Ocean Clinic Marbella

A chemical peel strips away layers of old skin to stimulate the production of new cells, in a process known as ‘therapeutic wounding’.

Peeling is usually carried out on the face because it is also effective for reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. However, we are able to treat other parts of the body, such as the hands, or apply spot peels to localised areas (i.e., to individual marks or blemishes).

Chemical peeling not only improves the appearance of IHG spots, but also brown age/liver spots, scars, and other discolouration. And by ensuring use of an adequate SPF at all times and avoiding tanning beds, patients can prevent further sun damage occurring to their skin.

About Ocean Clinic

Ocean Clinic Marbella is one of the most modern clinics on the Costa del Sol, offering a complete range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments and dentistry.

The clinic was founded in 2008 by Dr. Kai Kaye, who is a registered Plastic Surgery Consultant in Germany, Spain, and the UK. Dr. Kaye regularly lectures at national and international conventions and teaches at Plastic Surgery Resident courses. Dr. Kaye and his team also carry out charitable work, providing reconstructive surgery and dental work to patients in developing countries.

Av. Ramon y Cajal 7
29600 Marbella
Reception 1: +34 951 775 518
Reception 2: +34 952 900 836
Fax: +34 952 868 827
E-Mail: info@oceanclinic.net

WWW: www.oceanclinic.net