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Journalism of Courage
When faced with skin and health issues, many of us make attempts to reach the deepest corners of the internet and find out what the problem potentially may be. This results in self-diagnosis that often presents itself as being much more serious than it is in reality. As such, have you ever tried to Google what that patchy skin on your face and body indicate? It is a common mistake for people to think that these white spots are signs of a serious skin disorder, when in fact they are often just dry patches caused by insufficient moisturisation.
In a recent video, content creator and dermatologist Dr Jushya Bhatia Sarin suggests that contrary to popular belief, these patches may not signify a condition like vitiligo but could instead be a result of inadequate moisturiser use. She adds that proper hydration and skincare routines can play a crucial role in preventing and treating these patches.
Dr Ramesh, dermatologist at Athreya Hospital says, “While white patches can occur due to both dry skin and vitiligo, there are key differences for identification.”
Dry skin patches, he adds, tend to be flaky, and slightly raised and may improve with proper moisturisation. In some cases, patients might have associated numbness and nerve thickening too. Vitiligo patches, on the other hand, are usually smooth, well-defined, and milky or chalky white. A family history of vitiligo can also be a clue.
Dry skin often presents with several symptoms before white patches develop, Dr Ramesh shares. These include:
Healthy skin relies on a balanced moisture level. When the skin barrier weakens due to dryness, it loses its ability to retain water.
This dehydration leads to the following problems, Dr Ramesh states:
Increased dead skin cell accumulation: Dead cells accumulate on the surface, appearing as white flakes or patches.
Inflammation: Dryness can trigger mild inflammation, further disrupting the skin barrier and worsening the white patch appearance.
Increased flakiness and peeling: As the skin struggles to maintain hydration, it sheds dead cells more rapidly, leading to white flakes and potential peeling, exposing underlying paler skin.
According to Dr Ramesh, integrating the following techniques to your skincare regimen can significantly help avoid patchy skin:
Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that strip away natural oils. Opt for fragrance-free, gentle cleansers.
Use a fragrance-free, emollient moisturiser suitable for your skin type. Apply liberally after showering and throughout the day, especially on hands and elbows.
Consider getting a humidifier, especially in dry climates or winter months, to add moisture to the air and prevent further drying.
If medications or skin conditions contribute to dryness, consult a dermatologist for proper management.
Drink plenty of water, manage stress, and limit hot showers or baths, which can worsen dryness.
