Vitiligo
Autoimmune destruction of pigment cells creating white patches. Affects 1-2% of people worldwide. Not contagious.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal skin
Even pigmentation
Vitiligo
White patches, sharp borders
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), resulting in well-defined white patches of skin. It affects approximately 1-2% of the world's population across all skin tones and ethnicities.
Vitiligo can appear at any age but most commonly begins before age 30. It often starts on sun-exposed areas or areas of friction and can gradually spread. The patches have characteristically sharp, well-defined borders.
There are two main types. Non-segmental (generalized) vitiligo is most common and tends to be symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body. Segmental vitiligo affects one side or segment and is more stable.
Vitiligo is not contagious, not painful, and not physically harmful. However, the cosmetic impact can cause significant psychological distress, particularly in people with darker skin tones where the contrast is more visible.
Treatment options include topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors, narrowband UVB phototherapy, excimer laser, and in stable cases, surgical grafting. Ruxolitinib cream (a JAK inhibitor) was recently approved specifically for vitiligo repigmentation. Sun protection is important to minimize contrast between affected and unaffected skin.
Quick self-check
Does this look like vitiligo? Answer 2 questions.
Are there well-defined white patches on the skin?
Are the patches symmetrical (appearing on both sides of the body)?
Risk factors
- Family history of vitiligo or other autoimmune conditions
- Personal history of autoimmune diseases (thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, alopecia areata)
- Can affect any skin tone but more visible in darker skin
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠White patches appearing on the skin, especially if spreading
- ⚠Loss of color in the hair, eyebrows, or eyelashes
- ⚠Loss of color inside the mouth or on mucosal surfaces
Often confused with
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Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Is vitiligo contagious?
No. Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition - your own immune system attacking your pigment cells. It cannot be transmitted to anyone through any form of contact.
Can vitiligo be reversed?
Repigmentation is possible with treatment, especially in newer patches and in younger patients. Phototherapy and topical treatments can stimulate melanocyte regeneration. Recently approved ruxolitinib cream has shown promising results.
Does vitiligo affect overall health?
Vitiligo itself is not harmful. However, because it is autoimmune, people with vitiligo have a higher rate of other autoimmune conditions - particularly thyroid disease. Regular thyroid screening is recommended.