Vitiligo

8 April 2025

Vitiligo, a skin condition that causes pigment loss and patchy white areas on the skin.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), resulting in white patches on the skin or hair. It can affect any part of the body and may progress over time.

Although vitiligo is not harmful or contagious, it can have a significant emotional and psychological impact, especially when it appears on visible areas such as the face, hands, or scalp.

What Causes Vitiligo?

The exact cause of vitiligo isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of:

Autoimmune response – the immune system attacks pigment cells
Genetic factors – family history may increase risk
Skin trauma or sunburn – can trigger vitiligo in some people
Oxidative stress – imbalance of antioxidants and free radicals
Hormonal changes or emotional stress – potential contributing triggers

Signs & Symptoms of Vitiligo

Vitiligo symptoms can vary in severity and location. Common signs include:

White or light-coloured patches of skin
Loss of pigment on the hands, face, arms, feet, and around body openings (eyes, mouth, genitals)
Premature whitening of the hair, eyelashes, or eyebrows
Symmetrical patterns of skin changes, often affecting both sides of the body
No physical discomfort, though some may feel a mild itching sensation

Diagnosing Vitiligo

Diagnosis is made through:

Clinical examination by a dermatologist
Use of a Wood’s lamp to highlight pigment loss
Medical history review including autoimmune conditions
In some cases, a skin biopsy or blood test may be used to rule out other conditions

Vitiligo Treatment Options

While there is no cure for vitiligo, various treatments can help restore skin colour and slow progression:

Topical Treatments:

Corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation and encourage repigmentation
Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus) for sensitive areas like the face

Light Therapy (Phototherapy):

Narrowband UVB therapy – most effective for widespread vitiligo
Excimer laser for small, targeted patches

Camouflage & Cosmetics:

Medical-grade camouflage makeup
Self-tanning products for blending skin tone

Surgical Treatments:

Skin grafting – transferring pigmented skin to vitiligo patches
Melanocyte transplantation in selected cases

Supportive Care:

Nutritional guidance and lifestyle advice
Psychological support for coping with body image
Sun protection to prevent sunburn and skin damage

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any Vitiligo symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialist dermatologists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.