White spots on skin are almost as prevalent as what dark spots are, although of course there isn't really any connection, other than both types are due to issues regarding skin pigmentation. Pigmentation, or skin color, is regulated by a substance known as melanin which is produced by melanocytes. As a person ages, these cells may stop producing sufficient melanin in certain areas, or they can sometimes also begin producing too much. In other words, the aging process can have an effect on not only melanin production, but also on the necessary regulation and distribution of melanin and melanocyte cells

While dark spots are typically caused by excessive exposure to sunlight, white spots are frequently caused by a health condition known as vitiligo. This is a non-contagious ailment, although in severe cases, those with the condition often feel as though society is looking down on them, or even shunning them. In the vast majority of cases, the spots will be no larger than the average freckle, and they can appear anywhere on the body. In more severe cases, there can be countless spots all grouped together in such a way so that it appears as if large areas of skin have lost pigmentation.

Oftentimes, when a person first notices the appearance of white spots, they think a good suntan will hide their spots, but in reality this is the worst thing to do. The affected areas will not darken as expected, and there's a very real risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, people with vitiligo should never expose their skin to sunlight with first applying a good quality sunscreen.

People frequently mistake nevus depigmentosus for vitiligo, but the two are very different. For example, vitigo is a condition which arises at some point in a person's life, while nevus depigmentosus is something you're born with. Also, unlike vitiligo which can steadily get worse, nevus depigmentosus isn't progressive. In other words, the condition does not worsen.

White spots on skin can also be caused by a condition known as idiopathic guttate hupomelnosis. Again, this is not the same as vitiligo, and the spots will almost always be between two and five millimeters across. In most cases, the spots will be flat and smooth, although some may become scaly. The primary cause of idiopathic guttate hupomelnosis is excessive exposure to direct sunlight, but it can also be caused by frequent and long term use of tanning beds.

Pityriasis Alba also causes white spots which can be as big as 20cm's across. This condition usually affects kids, but the good news is that it self-corrects. In other words, if it's left alone, it goes away with time. As of now, nobody knows for sure what causes it but they do suspect certain factors, including things such as stress, heat, and even humidity.

As you can see, white spots on skin can be caused by several things, and this is why one should go for a professional diagnosis prior to embarking on a particular treatment plan. Depending on the diagnosis, certain cosmetic procedures such as laser treatment for example, can be beneficial, but of course for many people these types of treatment are cost prohibitive.

There are also a number of topical treatments available; both over-the-counter and prescription, but once again, it will depend on the cause of one's spots. For example, there's no known treatment for idiopathic guttate hupomelnosis although the spots can be masked with the help of makeup. If on the other hand you're diagnosed with vitiligo, there are a number of treatments, including several topical creams and lotions.

Since creams and lotions are generally the cheapest option, they're also the most popular option. Having said that, one should always consider an all-natural product to begin with since many prescription creams and brand name creams have high concentrations of potentially dangerous chemicals. Such treatments often produce results, but they can also cause long term damage to the skin, and of course also contribute substantially to premature aging.