What is vitiligo?

Vitiligo is accurately described as a pigmentation disease characterized by white patches on the skin. This condition occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin, are destroyed or cease to function properly, leading to the loss of color in certain areas of the skin. As a result, the affected areas become noticeably lighter compared to the surrounding skin. The depigmented patches can appear anywhere on the body and may be more prominent in individuals with darker skin tones.

Understanding vitiligo is crucial for facial specialists, as they may encounter clients seeking treatment options aimed at managing the appearance of the condition or addressing its psychological impacts. While other conditions may involve skin changes, such as infections, cancer, or excessive sweating, they do not relate to the specific pigmentation loss that defines vitiligo. Recognizing the distinguishing characteristics of this skin condition is essential for proper assessment and treatment planning.