Vitiligo What is it?

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. 

Types of vitiligo

1. Generalised  2. Focal  3. Mucosal 4. Universal  5. Trichrome   6. Segmental  

Presentation of 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.