Vitiligo

Vitiligo has affected an estimated 1-2 million Americans and while there is no cure, vitiligo can be treated. Vitiligo is a condition in which pigment-producing cells in the skin and hair disappear. Visible patches of light skin and hair will occur.

Symptoms

The exact cause is unknown however it does run in some families. It is thought as an “auto-immune” disease which is believed that normal pigment cells of the skin have been attacked. The types of vitiligo are:

Generalized- The most common type of vitiligo.
Skin usually loses color equally on both sides of the body. Color loss can affect the arms and legs, including the hands, fingertips, feet and also around the eyes or mouth. In the beginning, color loss may be rapid. This is often followed by a period of little or no color loss.
Localized- Also called segmental vitiligo, this type causes color loss on one part or segment of the skin.
Hair color may also be lost in the involved area. Often, a patch of hair on the head, an eyelash or eyebrow turns white. Color loss often occurs for a year or two, and then stops.
Acrofacial- Color loss occurs only on the head, hands and feet.
Universal- Color loss occurs on most of the body.

Treatment

There is no cure for vitiligo. A person who has vitiligo will live with the condition for the remainder of their life. However, changes in pigmentation may be reversed or corrected. Types of treatment options to restore pigment to the skin include:

Corticosteroids
Topical medicines
XTRAC light therapy
Laser therapy
Cosmetic products

Make an appointment
(317) 926-3739

Meet our Medical Providers

Robert H. Huff, MD, FAAD Avon, Lebanon
Ryan K. Brashear, MD, FAAD Greenwood
Christopher M. Bohyer, MD, FAAD Greenwood, New Castle
John B. Stephens, MD, FAAD Fishers, Greencastle, Hazel Dell
Alison Launhardt, MD, FAAD Carmel, Tipton
Kathleen Hanover, MD, FAAD Carmel, Fishers
Lisa Trivedi, MD, FAAD Carmel
Janelle M. Tabet, PA-C Greenwood
Cassandra (Cassie) M. Sexson, PA-C Greenwood, Shelbyville
Andrew Burns, PA-C Greencastle, Hazel Dell
Stephanie Burns, PA-C Greenwood, New Castle
Michaela Wehr, PA-C Avon, Lebanon
Samantha Kitcoff, PA-C Fishers
Christina Raynor, FNP-C Avon

Do you have vitiligo?

Although vitiligo isn’t contagious or life-threatening, it can be life-altering, affecting your outlook and self-esteem. The team of providers at Dermatology, Inc. offer comprehensive vitiligo care, including many effective treatment options

Make an Appointment

Schedule an appointment online
or call (317) 926-3739