Vitiligo is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes pale, white patches to develop on the skin. The areas affected have little or no melanin.
Melanin is a dye-like substance that is produced by specialised skin cells called melanocytes. It gives your skin its colour and protects it from the sun's rays.
Where does vitiligo occur?
Vitiligo can affect any area of your skin, but most commonly occurs on skin that is exposed to the sun, such as your face, neck and hands.
Vitiligo is more noticeable in people whose skin is dark or tanned. The condition varies from person to person. For example, some people only get a few small, white patches that progress no further. Other people get bigger white patches that join up across large areas of their skin. See Vitiligo - symptoms for more information.
There is no way of predicting how much of your skin will be affected. The white patches are usually permanent.
How common is vitiligo?
In the UK, about 1 in 100 people develop vitiligo. It usually starts to appear at around 20 years of age, although it can occur at any age. Men and women are equally affected, as are people of different ethnicities.
It is not clear what causes vitiligo. It is not infectious and you cannot catch it from contact with someone who has it.
Outlook
The white patches caused by vitiligo are usually permanent, although there are treatment options to improve the appearance of your skin. In general, combination treatments, such as phototherapy (treatment with light) and medication, give the best results.
In some cases, treatment may restore pigment (colour) to your patches but the effect does not usually last. Treatment cannot stop the condition from spreading. See Vitiligo - treatment for more information.
Skin camouflage cream is widely used to cover up the white patches, and it can help you live a normal life. The cream:
- is blended to match your natural skin colour
- is waterproof
- can last up to four days on your body or 12-18 hours on your face
Support groups are also very important, as you can speak to other people living with vitiligo. Your GP may suggest a group in your area. Charities such as The Vitiligo Society may be able to help.
