Loss of Melanocytes & Disruption of Melanin Production Vitiligo is a skin condition that results in the loss of skin color or pigment. This leads to your skin appearing lighter than your natural skin tone or even turning white. While the exact causes of vitiligo remain unknown, studies suggest a connection to changes in the immune system. It most commonly affects areas like your hands, feet, arms, and face, but it can also impact your hair, mouth, mucous membranes, genitals, inner ear, and eyes.

The affected areas, called “macules” when smaller than one centimeter or “patches” when larger, display depigmentation and have a clear boundary without any signs of inflammation. These macules are usually a milky-white color and can take on round, oval, or linear shapes, clearly distinguished from the surrounding healthy skin.