Vitiligo

Vitiligo can start at any age, in people of all skin types.

What is it?

Vitiligo is one reason some people suddenly see white areas appear on their skin. These can be small spots or large patches.

What causes it?

The cells that make pigment in the skin are called melanocytes. In vitiligo, inflammation affects these cells and they stop functioning, causing white patches to appear. It is not contagious or life threatening.

What are the symptoms?

Patchy loss of skin colour, often starting on the hands, face, elbows and knees. Vitiligo can also affect the lips and the hair.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment for vitiligo aims to return pigment to the area, but it doesn’t always prevent new patches or a recurrence later on. It is very difficult to predict how vitiligo will progress or respond to treatment.

There is no cure for vitiligo but there are creams that settle the inflammation in the skin. Sometimes light treatment is also needed and there is currently a lot of research into new treatments.

Protecting against sunburn and monitoring self-esteem are also important. Camouflage may be useful during treatment.

What to expect at your appointment

We will ask you questions about your vitiligo, such as any creams you are using now and previous treatments you have tried. We will also ask about your past and current health and your family history. Your skin will be examined carefully for the features of vitiligo and a special light may be used to highlight the white patches. Usually, no specific tests will be needed to diagnose vitiligo, but blood tests may be recommended if you have a strong family history of autoimmune conditions.