Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that lightens the skin. The hypo-pigmented skin area creates an imbalance in the affected person’s skin colour
Other names for vitiligo
1. Leukoderma 2. Piebald skin
Causes of Vitiligo
Skin cells called melanocytes produce a chemical substance melanin. When melanin is attacked by the person’s own immune system, an imbalance in the skin colour results in vitiligo.
1. Milky white patches 2. Small itchy hypo-pigmented macules
Treatment for vitiligo
Vitiligo cannot be treated. It can only be managed.Sun exposure can be prevented by using sunscreen. Uneven patches can be masked with cosmetic products. Light therapies and surgeries can also help.
Living with vitiligo
Vitiligo is a disease that can cause uneven skin tone. This can lead to low self-esteem and affect a person’s self-confidence. There are many treatment options available to manage vitiligo.