If you’ve looked in the mirror recently and spotted tiny white patches on your arms or legs, you’re definitely not alone. These small, pale spots can be surprising—especially if they appeared out of nowhere. While they often look concerning, in many cases they’re harmless and very common.
What Do These Spots Look Like?

People usually describe them as:

Small, round or oval pale patches

Smooth and slightly lighter than surrounding skin

Sometimes more noticeable after sun exposure

They may appear one at a time or in clusters. They often don’t itch, burn, or hurt—just look different from the rest of your skin.
Possible Causes of White Spots

There are several reasons white spots can show up on arms and legs. Here are the most common:
1. Sun Exposure & Pigment Loss

After spending time in the sun, tiny areas of skin can lose pigment and appear lighter than surrounding skin. This is often more noticeable on darker or tanned skin.

Why it happens:
Sun can gradually break down melanin—the pigment that gives skin its color—resulting in isolated pale patches.
2. Pityriasis Alba

This is a mild skin condition, especially common in children and teens. It causes faint, scaly, light-colored patches that may be more visible after tanning.

Typical features:

Not painful or itchy

Often fade over time

May come and go with dry weather

3. Fungal Infections

Some types of fungal skin infections can show up as discolored patches. These may be paler or slightly different from your normal skin tone.

Signs to Watch For:

Slight itchiness

Spreading or enlarging patches

Often more visible in warm, sweaty areas

⬇️continued on the next page⬇️