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Vitiligo

Vitiligo is characterised by white patches on the skin, known as depigmentation (loss of colour). It affects around 1% of the population, and although it affects all races and skin types, it appears more noticeable in people with darker skin tones. At The Skin Hospital, we understand the significant impact vitiligo can have on a person’s quality of life.

Woman with vitiligo skin condition

Causes & Symptoms

Vitiligo is caused by the body’s own immune system attacking melanocytes (pigment cells). This condition can affect any area of the body in various patterns, but often affects the hands, feet, body folds, genital area, lips and the area around the eyes. Where areas of hair-bearing skin are affected, it can cause the hairs to turn white.

For some people this condition seems to worsen with stress or physical injury and can emerge in any area of skin damage or injury, such as cuts, scratches or sunburn (known as koebnerisation). It can also be associated with other autoimume conditions, the most common being thyroid disease, in the patient or patient’s family. Blood tests are not needed to diagnose vitiligo; however, the treating dermatologist may carry out blood tests to look for possible linked conditions or other associations.

Treatment for vitiligo

Our specialty clinics are run by dermatologists who have sub-specialised in a chosen condition bringing deep knowledge and specific expertise.

The Skin Hospital runs a specialty clinic at Darlinghurst and Westmead dedicated to the treatment of vitiligo. If you would like to find out more about the clinics please contact us.

Find a specialist

We have a number of Dermatologists specialising in vitiligo.  If you are concerned, book your appointment with The Skin Hospital.

We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which The Skin Hospital operates. For thousands of years, these lands have been cared for by Indigenous communities and their ancestors. We recognise and appreciate their ongoing connection to Country, culture, and community. We also pay our respects to the elders, past and present, of these communities, as well as to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have contributed to the cultural heritage of this country.
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