Dermatology New York

Vitiligo

Skin Conditions...Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin has loss of its pigmentation that leads to the formation of white spots. Any area of the body may be affected with the most common areas being the face, lips, hands, arms, legs and genital areas. Approximately 2 out of every 100 people develop vitiligo and often the onset is before the age of 20. Vitiligo appears to be an autoimmune process where the immune system of the body destroys the melanocytes (pigment producing cells). The progression of vitiligo varies from person to person and will be more noticeable in darker skinned people or when the skin tans. Treatments for vitiligo include topical medications, light treatments, and laser treatments.