Vitiligo is a skin condition that features patches of skin that grow lighter due to lack of skin pigment. It’s most apparent when contrasted with surrounding skin that has remained pigmented. While still not completely understood, vitiligo is widely thought to be an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s own immune system attacks healthy tissues in the body. Vitiligo has a unique presentation in every person who has it. Vitiligo can be in only one area of the body. It can be on one or both sides of the body. Or it can be symmetrical. Further, the condition can affect different parts of the body, including skin, hair and mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and other areas.
Celebrities such as Winnie Harlow — a model with vitiligo — have raised awareness of this condition. Harlow models the importance of accepting one’s skin and embracing skin diversity. Up to 2% of the worldwide population experiences vitiligo. The condition typically develops during young adulthood, commonly around 20 years old.
What causes vitiligo?
Vitiligo is believed to be due to the immune system attacking melanocytes, which are the pigment-producing cells of the skin. As melanocytes are destroyed, they are not able to produce pigment, leaving the skin lighter. This gradual process can cause existing affected areas to grow or new areas to develop.
While the condition itself is not harmful, the mental toll of vitiligo can impair quality of life. Particularly when vitiligo affects exposed areas, such as the face and arms, it may draw attention and impact personal and professional interactions. The mental toll, including anxiety and emotional distress, is common among people with vitiligo.
Vitiligo occurs in all skin types, genders, ethnicities and racial backgrounds. In the United States, the incidence of vitiligo is highest among Asian Americans, followed by Latino, Black and then white individuals. The psychosocial impacts are typically more pronounced with extensive disease, especially in cases of vitiligo that are more noticeable, particularly in individuals with darker skin colors.
Further, having vitiligo is associated with having a higher risk of other autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and others.
Can vitiligo be prevented or cured?
Vitiligo cannot be prevented or cured. Some people choose to pursue treatment, while others may not find treatment necessary. Some people will cover up with clothing, makeup or self-tanner. Vitiligo treatment is typically focused on preventing the spread of the existing patches or growth of new areas of depigmentation. Treatment also may try to gain back pigment in affected areas.
There are multiple approaches to treating vitiligo, including topical and oral medications. These include corticosteroids and drugs called immunomodulators. With more extensive disease, various light and laser-based therapies also can be applied. Surgery is a potential option, but it is typically only considered when vitiligo is in cosmetically sensitive sites, has not responded to other therapies and has remained stable.
Does vitiligo spread to others? Is vitiligo dangerous?
Vitiligo is not dangerous or contagious. People cannot spread vitiligo. It does not lead to cancers or other worrisome disease.
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