Vitiligo Causes Loss of Skin Colour

London Dermatology | 31 May 2025

Vitiligo, also known as leukodermia, is a condition that causes areas of the skin to lose their natural colour. These patches appear lighter than the surrounding skin and may also affect the colour of the hair, eyes, or inside of the mouth.

What Causes Vitiligo?

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, vitiligo occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes. These are the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their colour. Vitiligo can begin at any age and affects people of all skin tones.

You may be more likely to develop vitiligo if:

• You have a family history of the condition

• You have an autoimmune disorder, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or alopecia areata

Where Does Vitiligo Appear?

Vitiligo can affect almost any part of the body. Common areas include:

• The face, hands, elbows, knees, and feet

• The genital area and inside the mouth

• Hair, which may turn white or grey earlier than usual

Although vitiligo itself is not painful or dangerous, some people may experience mild itching in the affected areas.

Types of Vitiligo

Vitiligo does not follow a predictable pattern and can vary greatly between individuals. There are several types:

• Segmental vitiligo usually affects just one side or part of the body. It often starts at a young age and may stop progressing after a few years.

• Localised (focal) vitiligo involves one or a few small areas of the body and may remain stable over time.

• Generalised vitiligo is the most common type and causes widespread pigment loss. It often appears symmetrically. For example, if one hand is affected, the other hand may be too.

Emotional Impact and Treatment Options

Vitiligo is not harmful to physical health, but its visible effects can be emotionally distressing, especially when the condition is widespread or affects the face and hands. Many people seek treatment not because of physical symptoms, but due to the impact on confidence and self-esteem.

Several treatments are available to help restore colour or even out the skin tone. These include:

• Topical creams

• Light therapy

• Laser treatments

• Depigmentation therapies in some cases

Each treatment comes with potential side effects, and results vary from person to person. A thorough consultation with a dermatologist is essential to find the most suitable option.

Support You Can Trust

At Devonshire Dermatology, we understand how vitiligo can affect your daily life. Our specialists offer expert guidance, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you manage this condition with confidence.

Get in touch today to book a consultation and explore the treatment options available to you.