Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition in which the body loses melanocytes—the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This results in white patches of skin that may appear anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, feet, arms, and genitals. While vitiligo is not harmful or contagious, it can impact a person’s emotional well-being and confidence.

Vitiligo presents differently in each person. Common signs include:

Depigmented Patches – White or light-colored patches appear on the skin.

Commonly Affected Areas – Usually begins on the hands, face, or areas around body openings.

Generalized or Segmental – May be symmetrical (generalized) or localized to one part of the body.

White Hair (Leukotrichia) – In some cases, hair growing on white patches may turn white too.

Vitiligo can affect people of all skin types and ages, though it is more noticeable in individuals with darker skin. It often begins before the age of 30 and may be associated with other autoimmune disorders such as thyroid disease or alopecia areata.