Vitiligo
What even is vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by the loss of pigmentation, resulting in the development of white patches on the skin. It occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes, are destroyed or become non-functional. The exact cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune process, genetic factors, and environmental triggers.
What does it look like, can it spread, and what effects does it have?
Vitiligo can affect any part of the body, and the extent and progression of the condition can vary from person to person. The depigmented patches may appear symmetrically on both sides of the body and can gradually enlarge over time. While vitiligo does not cause physical pain or pose significant health risks, it can profoundly impact an individual’s appearance, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Is it contagious and who does it affect?
Vitiligo is not contagious, and it can occur in people of all ages, races, and ethnicities. It often becomes noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones, as the contrast between the depigmented patches and the surrounding skin is more pronounced.
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Treatments?
While there is currently no cure for vitiligo, several treatment options can help manage its symptoms and improve the appearance of the affected skin. These may include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and topical calcipotriene. Phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light through our own Xtrac Laser Therapy which we provide is very effective and beneficial. In some cases, surgical procedures like skin grafting or tattooing can be considered for more extensive or stable vitiligo patches.
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