Vitiligo affects around 1% of the population, all races and skin types, but may appear more noticeable in people with darker skin tones. Vitiligo is characterised by white patches appearing on the skin, known as depigmentation. At The Skin Artistry, we understand the significant psychological impact vitiligo can have on a person’s quality of life.

Vitiligo is a disease that cannot be hidden. It has distinctive white patches as the symptom where the skin loses its pigmentation. These patches may be small, to begin with, and may change their shape and increase over a period of time. These patches are generally visible on face, hands, and wrists.

The patches may be more visible around the skin surrounding mouth, eyes, nostrils and other such areas. Since the disease is easy to spot, it often leads to stigmas and boycott of patients from the society. This is due to a lack of knowledge about the disease. Vitiligo is not a communal disease- it cannot be passed on with touch or breathing. However, stigmatization may lead to depression in the patient.

The exact cause of vitiligo is not yet known. Multiple theories have been suggested for the cause of Vitiligo. One of the most accepted cause is the change in the immune system. Genetics and environmental reasons also have an impact in causing Vitiligo.

In a lot of cases, people suffering from Vitiligo also have autoimmune thyroid disease. Hence it is a good idea to get the thyroid gland tested. In case your thyroid levels are not within the acceptable range then also it is possible to treat it and control it at the right time. Vitiligo is a disease that needs to be controlled right at the onset to ensure that it does not increase too much and cause not so pleasing appearance.