Understanding and Treating Vitiligo

If you’ve noticed pale patches showing up on your skin that don’t seem to go away, you might be dealing with something called vitiligo. It’s a pretty common skin condition—and no, it’s not contagious or caused by anything you did wrong.

Vitiligo happens when your skin loses pigment in certain areas, which can lead to light or white patches. It’s caused by a lack of melanin—the stuff that gives your skin, hair, and eyes their color. Normally, melanin is made by cells called melanocytes, but with vitiligo, those cells either stop working or disappear altogether. We’re still figuring out exactly why that happens.

So, What Does It Actually Look Like?

Vitiligo can show up almost anywhere, but it’s most common on the face, neck, hands, and areas where your skin folds or creases. The patches are usually lighter than the rest of your skin and may slowly change over time.

It affects people of all ages and skin types. Some notice just a few small spots, while others may have more widespread changes. And while vitiligo itself doesn’t hurt, it can be tough emotionally—especially when the patches are in places everyone can see.

 

How Common Is It?

About 1 in every 100 people lives with vitiligo. That might not sound like a lot, but it’s enough that you’ve probably seen someone with it—maybe without even realizing. The condition can show up at any age and tends to be unpredictable. Sometimes it spreads quickly, other times it barely changes for years.

It can also affect more than just your skin. For some people, it shows up in the hair (think white streaks or patches), or even on the lips, inside the mouth, or around the eyes and ears.

A Quick Heads-Up About Sun Protection

One important thing to know: the lighter patches of skin don’t have melanin to protect them from the sun, which means they can burn much more easily. So if you have vitiligo, using sunscreen with high SPF isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must.

What Causes It?

We’re still learning, but here’s what we do know:

• It’s not contagious.

• It’s not caused by something you touched or ate.

• In many cases, the immune system is involved—your body starts attacking the pigment-producing cells by mistake.

• Genetics may play a role too. It sometimes runs in families.

• Stress, skin injuries, or certain health conditions may act as triggers.

Can It Be Treated?

Short answer: yes, but treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all.

For a long time, the only real option was cosmetic cover-up. Now, we have more to offer. At The London Dermatology Clinic, our dermatologists work with you to figure out what will give your skin the best chance at repigmentation.

Here’s what treatment might look like:

Prescription creams that help calm the immune system

Light therapy (also called phototherapy), often combined with other treatments

Micropigmentation, which is a form of medical tattooing

Skin grafting in some cases

Or just expert guidance if you prefer cosmetic camouflage

It’s also totally okay to choose not to treat it, and instead focus on protecting your skin and embracing how it looks. There’s no right or wrong approach—just what feels best for you.

Not Sure Where to Start?

You don’t need all the answers right now. That’s what we’re here for. If you’re wondering whether treatment is right for you—or just want someone to take a proper look—book a consultation with one of our skin specialists. No pressure, just honest guidance.

 

FAQ

Is vitiligo hereditary?

While there may be a genetic component, it doesn’t guarantee inheritance. Consult a genetic counselor for personalized information.

Can stress worsen vitiligo?

Stress may exacerbate symptoms in some cases, but it’s not a direct cause. Stress management can be beneficial.

Are there dietary restrictions for vitiligo?

No specific diet is proven to treat vitiligo, but a balanced, nutritious diet can support overall skin health.

Is vitiligo contagious?

No, vitiligo is not contagious; it doesn’t spread through contact with affected individuals.

Can tattoos or permanent makeup cover vitiligo patches?

It’s possible, but consult a skilled tattoo artist experienced in vitiligo camouflage for best results.

Does vitiligo treatment have any age restrictions?

Treatment options are available for individuals of all ages; consult a dermatologist to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific circumstances.