Vitiligo is a condition that causes the skin to lose its color. It results in patches of lighter skin. While some people have a few small spots, others may experience widespread color loss.
After diagnosing vitiligo, a dermatologist can prescribe treatment to restore skin color and confidence.
Goodskin Dermatology is home to board-certified dermatologists in Portland, OR, who are experts in diagnosing and treating vitiligo.
Contact our team or read on to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of vitiligo.
What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo affects the skin, causing it to lose its color. Rather than the skin tone fading everywhere, the color loss usually occurs in spots and patches. As a result, some of the skin remains its original color while other spots and patches are lighter.
People of any skin color can develop this skin condition. However, vitiligo may be more noticeable on someone with a darker skin tone.
It is important to note that vitiligo is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person.
What Are the Symptoms of Vitiligo?
According to Yale Medicine, about 50% of people develop vitiligo before turning 20. When someone first develops vitiligo, patches of lighter skin tend to first appear on the following body parts:
- Face
- Arms
- Hands
- Feet
Over time, lighter spots may appear on other parts of the body. For example, some people may notice color loss on mucous membranes. These include the inside of the mouth and nose, as well as the genitals.
Vitiligo can also affect more than just skin tone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), vitiligo can fade hair and eye color.
In rare cases, vitiligo can occur in the ears. This can lead to hearing loss.
Types of Vitiligo
Often, vitiligo starts with just a few small patches of lighter skin. Sometimes, these areas remain the same size for years. In other cases, they may grow larger. However, it is not possible to predict how vitiligo will progress.
According to the AAD, dermatologists have different names for each type of vitiligo. These names vary depending on how a patient’s vitiligo presents.
- Localized vitiligo is when a few spots or patches of light skin appear in one or just a few places on the body.
- Generalized vitiligo refers to scattered patches of lighter skin on the body.
- Universal vitiligo is when most of the skin color is lost. This type of vitiligo is quite rare.
Dermatologists also use different terms to describe how vitiligo spreads over time.
- Non-segmental vitiligo is the most common. It typically spreads slowly, resulting in patches on both sides of the body.
- Segmental vitiligo causes rapid color loss, often on one side of the body. Within a year, this type of vitiligo stabilizes, and no new spots typically develop.
Although rare, mixed-type vitiligo also exists. It causes segmental vitiligo and color loss in other areas.
What Causes Vitiligo?
Some people mistakenly believe that vitiligo is only a cosmetic issue. However, it is a medical condition. Specifically, it is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks melanocytes. These cells are responsible for making skin pigment.
According to AAD, certain risk factors increase the chance of developing non-segmental vitiligo. One common risk factor is having a blood relative with vitiligo or another autoimmune disease.
Having melanoma or receiving immunotherapy to treat it can also increase the risk of developing vitiligo.
How Do You Protect Skin with Vitiligo?
Sun protection is critical with vitiligo. AAD explains that skin without its natural color is more likely to get a sunburn.
Additionally, sunburn can worsen vitiligo. The following tips can help protect skin from the sun:
- Use broad-spectrum protection, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Wear clothing and hats that protect skin from the sun.
- Spend time in the shade when the sun’s rays are most damaging.
Also, it is important to avoid tanning if you have vitiligo. This includes using a tanning bed or sun lamp.
The Emotional Toll of Vitiligo
Vitiligo can affect more than just a person’s physical health and appearance. It can also impact emotional and mental health. According to the AAD, some people with vitiligo feel:
- Angry
- Anxious
- Depressed
- Embarrassed
- Frustrated
- Self-conscious
This skin condition can take a psychological toll, but you deserve to feel confident. You also deserve effective vitiligo treatment.
How Goodskin Dermatology Treats Vitiligo
Goodskin Dermatology offers evidence-based vitiligo treatment in Portland, OR. To select the best treatment for you, our vitiligo dermatologists will first review your medical history.
They will also examine your skin in different types of lighting. In some cases, they may also order bloodwork or a skin biopsy. Once you have a vitiligo diagnosis, your doctor will help you explore your treatment options.
The AAD explains that vitiligo treatment has three main goals:
- Restore skin color.
- Stop vitiligo patches from growing.
- Prevent new spots of vitiligo.
With these goals in mind, several types of vitiligo treatments are available. Depending on your unique needs and goals, your vitiligo dermatologist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Corticosteroid cream for inflammation may help skin color return in the early stages of vitiligo, according to the Mayo Clinic. Corticosteroid pills and injections are also available.
- Medications that affect the immune system are also an option. Mayo Clinic states that calcineurin inhibitor ointments can help with small vitiligo spots on the face and neck. A type of janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor can also help by blocking certain enzymes that attack melanocytes.
- Light therapy works slowly over multiple treatments to help restore skin color. According to the AAD, this treatment is best for the face and neck.
- Surgical options, including skin grafts and cell transplants, are also available. Dermatologists may recommend them when other vitiligo treatments fail.
Yale University also explains that bleaching treatments are available if it isn’t possible to restore skin color.
Why Choose Goodskin Dermatology For Vitiligo Care?
Goodskin Dermatology has been helping patients like you feel good in their skin for over two decades.
Our trusted skin health experts provide Medical, Surgical, and Aesthetic Dermatology for conditions such as vitiligo.
From your first appointment, we will work closely with you to develop a customized vitiligo treatment plan. Your plan will consider your medical needs, health concerns, and aesthetic goals.
Our vitiligo dermatologists offer a wide range of FDA-approved treatments to help restore your skin color and confidence.
Start Your Vitiligo Treatment at Goodskin Dermatology
Effective vitiligo treatment is available in the Portland area at Goodskin Dermatology.
Our board-certified dermatologists provide personalized care designed to restore skin color, manage symptoms, and support your overall confidence.
With convenient locations in Clackamas, Hillsboro, Troutdale, and Beaverton, accessing expert vitiligo care is simple and accessible. Within our offices, you can receive FDA-approved therapies, phototherapy, and comprehensive skin evaluations tailored to your needs.
We are currently welcoming new patients. Schedule an appointment today to take the next step toward healthier, more confident skin.
FAQs About Vitiligo
Is Vitiligo a Serious Medical Condition?
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin, making it more prone to sunburn. It can also cause hearing loss when it affects the ears.
Can Vitiligo Spread?
Yes, vitiligo can and often does spread. However, it is impossible to predict how quickly and how much it will spread. The most common type, non-segmental vitiligo, typically spreads slowly, though.
Is there a cure for vitiligo?
No, it’s not currently possible to cure vitiligo, but treatment may help restore skin color. This is especially true when treatment for vitiligo starts early.
What is the newest vitiligo treatment?
The newest vitiligo treatment is the use of JAK inhibitors. This medication was created to treat rheumatoid arthritis, according to Yale University. However, in 2022, the FDA approved a topical JAK inhibitor cream to help restore normal skin pigment.
Does vitiligo affect hair?
Yes, vitiligo can cause hair to turn white or gray prematurely.