Vitiligio

Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes a loss of the brown pigmentation from areas of the skin, resulting in irregular white patches. These areas do not feel any different from other parts of the skin, they are merely affected by loss of pigmentation. Although vitiligo primarily affects the skin, it can also occur anywhere that pigmentation occurs, including hair and sometimes even eyes. Vitiligo affects about one out of every hundred people in the United States and may appear at any age.

Our dermatologists approach vitiligo treatment with various methods tailored to your individual needs. While there's no definitive cure, treatments aim to manage the condition and improve skin appearance. With a proper skin consultation, we can work with you to determine the best outcome for your skin condition. Schedule a skin consultation to begin your healthy skin journey with Dermatology of Southeastern Ohio.

Examples of Vitiligio

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vitiligo-0013-WatermarkedWyJXYXRlcm1hcmtlZCJd
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What are the Symptoms of Vitiligo?

  • Patches of lighter-colored or white skin appearing any place on the body.
  • Some people with vitiligo develop a few patches, while others are affected in large parts of the skin area.The edges of the patches are well-defined, but irregular.
  • There are generally not any other symptoms of the condition, and people affected otherwise feel completely healthy.

What Causes Vitiligo?

  • Vitiligo is believed to result from a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors.
  • It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment.
  • Genetic factors may contribute to an individual's susceptibility to vitiligo, and certain environmental triggers.

Can You Prevent Vitiligo?

Currently, there is no surefire way to prevent vitiligo, as the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood. However, some strategies may help manage the condition or reduce its impact including proper sun protection using a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen, and early intervention with a custom treatment plan from your dermatologist.

Vitiligo FAQs

Vitiligo can occur anywhere on the body. However, it often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, and feet.

Vitiligo can impact self-esteem, but there are treatment options available. Dermatologists may recommend topical steroids, phototherapy, or other therapies to help repigment the skin.

While there is no cure for vitiligo, various treatments aim to improve skin appearance. Dermatologists may tailor treatment plans based on individual needs, and supportive therapies can help manage the condition.

Vitiligo may spread over time, and its progression can vary from person to person. Dermatologists diagnose vitiligo through a physical examination and may use additional tests to assess the extent of depigmentation.

Sun exposure can potentially worsen vitiligo. Dermatologists often recommend protecting the skin from the sun using sunscreen and clothing to prevent sunburn in depigmented areas.

Treatments for Vitiligo

Treatment for vitiligo aims to restore color to the depigmented areas of the skin. Options include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and phototherapy using UVB light. It's important for individuals with vitiligo to work closely with dermatologists to develop a tailored management plan based on their specific condition and needs.

Our team of skin experts can help you achieve your healthy skin goals. Schedule your appointment today to start your skin journey.

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