Have you noticed small white spots on your arms or legs… and you don’t know what they are?

The primary cause of IGH is long-term sun exposure. Over time, ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages melanocyte cells—the cells responsible for producing melanin. When these cells stop functioning or disappear altogether in small areas of the skin, those areas become lighter than the surrounding skin.

In short:

• • Sun exposure damages pigment-producing cells

  • Less melanin is produced in specific spots

• Those areas appear white or pale

The good news? These spots are not harmful and do not indicate a serious health condition.

Can White Spots Be Removed?

Currently, there is no medically proven treatment that can permanently eliminate IGH.

Some treatments you may see mentioned online include:

• Topical retinoids

• Chemical peels

• Laser or light-based therapies

However, experts explain that these methods are unlikely to fully restore pigment once melanocyte cells have been lost. Results tend to be inconsistent or only temporary, which is why most dermatologists do not strongly recommend them for this condition alone.

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