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Vitiligo

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Pale white patches develop on the skin
  • Caused by a lack of melanin (skin pigment)
  • Commonly affects face, neck, hands, and skin creases
  • Affected skin is more vulnerable to sunburn
  • Hair in affected areas may turn white or grey

Overview

Vitiligo is a chronic condition characterized by the appearance of pale white patches on the skin. This occurs because the skin lacks melanin, the natural pigment that gives skin its color. While it can appear anywhere on the body, it is frequently seen on the face, neck, hands, and in skin folds. The condition is primarily caused by a shortage of working melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. For the most common type, non-segmental vitiligo, this is thought to be an autoimmune issue where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys these pigment-producing cells. A less common type, segmental vitiligo, may be linked to nerve chemicals. While there is no cure for vitiligo, various treatments can help reduce the appearance of the white patches. These include camouflage creams, steroid creams, and light therapy. Protecting the affected skin from sun exposure with high SPF sunscreen is crucial due to increased vulnerability to sunburn.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pale white patches on the skin
  • Commonly found around mouth, eyes, fingers, wrists, armpits, genitals
  • Patches can appear inside the mouth
  • Hair in affected areas may turn white or grey
  • Patches often start pale and gradually turn completely white
  • Center of a patch may be white with paler skin around it
  • Patches may be slightly pink if blood vessels are visible
  • Edges of patches can be smooth, irregular, red, or brownish
  • Occasionally causes itching, but no dryness

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Family history of vitiligo
  • Family history of other autoimmune conditions
  • Having another autoimmune condition
  • Diagnosis of melanoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Specific genetic changes linked to non-segmental vitiligo
  • Stressful life events like childbirth
  • Skin damage such as severe sunburn or cuts
  • Hormonal changes, for example during puberty
  • Problems with liver or kidneys
  • Exposure to certain chemicals

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination of affected skin by a doctor
  • Discussion of family medical history
  • Inquiry about skin injuries or tanning habits
  • Use of a Wood's lamp (UV light) to highlight patches
  • Assessment for symptoms of other autoimmune conditions
  • Blood test to check thyroid gland function

Treatment & Management

  • Skin camouflage creams to cover patches
  • Steroid creams to restore some pigment (short-term use)
  • Phototherapy (light treatment) for larger areas
  • Consistent use of high SPF sunscreen
  • Joining support groups for emotional well-being

Prevention

  • Protect affected skin from sun exposure
  • Apply high SPF sunscreen diligently
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Avoid known chemical triggers if identified
  • Seek medical advice for any new or spreading patches

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Vitiligo:

Vitiligo Treatment

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View treatment

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Vitiligo:

Melanocyte transplantation

→
View surgery

Contents

Quick Info

Affects

Skin pigment

Prevalence

Common

Diagnosis

Skin exam, Wood's lamp

Treatment

Creams, light therapy

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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