Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder causing patches of skin to lose their pigment due to melanocytes (pigment-making cells) being attacked and destroyed.
What is it?
Vitiligo is a chronic condition wherein areas of skin lose their natural pigment, melanin and develop white spots known as macules or patches. Macules are smaller than five millimeters, and patches are larger than this. Some individuals with vitiligo may notice their hair turning white in the affected regions. The onset of vitiligo often occurs in individuals in their 20s, initially appearing on the face, arms, hands or feet. The condition usually advances over time, leading to more and more skin areas losing their pigment. Vitiligo can affect individuals of all skin colors, but the lightened patches are more visible on darker or tanned skin tones
At Chapel Hill Dermatology, we diagnose and treat vitiligo, whether it's confined to small, localized areas or more generalized, impacting multiple areas of the body. With appropriate treatment, we've been able to help many patients regain their skin color in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
How is it treated?
In order to achieve your desired outcomes, we team will devise a strategy tailored to your age, overall health, vitiligo type, body location and the progression of the condition.
Our approach can include medication and medicated skin creams, like corticosteroids and light therapy, to enhance skin color conditions. It's crucial to understand that effective vitiligo treatments work gradually, and some individuals may require more intensive treatment to see improvement. Schedule an appointment and start your journey towards skin color restoration.