White spots: what is idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis?

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (IGH) is a dermatosis that generally receives little attention because it is not a condition that compromises overall health and its significance is purely aesthetic.

In some cases, the lesions can become very noticeable, unattractive, and distressing for those who have them, as they may interfere with their personal appearance. Therefore, it is a common reason for consultation in search of a solution.

Why does it appear?

Thanks to the widespread awareness of the harmful effects of the sun, patients generally know in advance that IGH is a benign condition characterized by two types of hypopigmented or completely depigmented lesions with a pearly appearance. These lesions may be few or numerous, affect almost exclusively sun-exposed areas such as the legs, arms, neckline, and hands, and can reach up to 1 cm in size, making them easy to confuse with vitiligo.

Published studies identify genetic predisposition and excessive sun exposure as the main triggering factors.

How is idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis treated?

There are different treatment options. The most commonly used and effective one is superficial dermabrasion, which is performed exclusively on the depigmented area.

In addition, white spots are a very common dermatosis, making it important for people to be aware of the skin damage that can be caused by the sun’s rays. You should always protect your skin, even during winter.

If you would like more information, contact our team at Clínicas Fernández Blanco, or call +34 915 54 09 24 (Madrid) or +34 952 850 468 (Marbella, Málaga).