can think of them as a cosmetic sign of photoaging—like freckles, but in reverse.
They are not contagious. You can’t catch them. They won’t spread to other people.
They are not a fungus. Unlike tinea versicolor (another condition that causes white spots), IGH spots usually have a smooth surface and don’t scale or itch.
How to Tell If You Have IGH
If you’re still unsure whether your white spots are IGH or something else, here’s what to look for:
Size: Small, flat, and round, usually 1-5 millimeters across.
Color: Pale white or porcelain-like. They stand out most against tanned or naturally darker skin.
Texture: Smooth. Not scaly, crusty, or rough.
Location: Most commonly on the shins, forearms, and the upper back or chest.
Progression: They appear gradually over time. They don’t grow rapidly or change shape.
Other symptoms: None. IGH doesn’t itch, hurt, or bleed.
If your spots are itchy,
