Vitiligo

Your Healthy Skin is Our Priority

Vitiligo

Your Healthy Skin is Our Priority

GENERAL

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a disease that causes the skin to lose pigment in blotches. This disease occurs when melanocytes (or the pigment skin cells) die or cease to function. Vitiligo can be present in various areas of the body, including:

Skin
Mouth
Eyes

Hair
Mucous membranes

Most people first notice signs of vitiligo in their 20s and early 30s. The loss of pigment is often symmetrical and can begin on your face, armpits, hands, genitalia, or knees.

Dermatologist evaluating a patient's skin

QUESTIONS

Vitiligo FAQs

What triggers vitiligo?

Vitiligo can occur when skin cells experience stress due to sunburn, injury, and chemical exposure. This stress can trigger an autoimmune response that targets melanocytes, resulting in a loss of pigmentation.

Can vitiligo go away?

There are treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, that can help stop the spread of vitiligo and even restore pigmentation. Some patients have even seen pigmentation return to their skin without treatment. However, there is no cure for vitiligo.

Is vitiligo a genetic disease?

Evidence suggests that genetics plays a role in vitiligo. It is more commonly found in people with family members who also have this disease.

Are you born with vitiligo?

Most people will not develop vitiligo until they are in their 20s. It is very rare for someone to be born with the condition.

PHOTOS

Pictures of Vitiligo

GET IN TOUCH

Find Treatment for Vitiligo Symptoms in Wilmington, NC

The board-certified dermatologists at the Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center of Wilmington can provide effective treatment options for you. We’re here to help you best prevent vitiligo from spreading to other parts of the body. Contact us online or via telephone at 910-782-0028 today to schedule a consultation.

Have questions or concerns? Please call us at 910.782.0028.