Vitiligo is a chronic condition that causes pale, white patches to develop on the skin. The areas affected have little or no melanin.

Melanin is a dye-like substance that is produced by specialised skin cells called melanocytes, which give your skin its colour and protect it from the sun's rays.

Where does vitiligo occur?

Vitiligo can affect any area of your skin, but most commonly occurs on skin that is exposed to the sun, such as your face, neck and hands.

Vitiligo is more noticeable in people whose skin is dark or tanned. The condition varies from person to person. For example, some people only get a few small, white patches that progress no further. Other people get bigger white patches that join up across large areas of their skin.

There is no way of predicting how much of your skin will be affected, and the white patches are usually permanent.

Who is affected by vitiligo?

In the UK, about one in 100 people develop vitiligo. In about half of all cases it begins before the age of 20, although it can occur at any age. Both men and women are equally affected.

It is not clear what causes vitiligo. It is not infectious and you can't catch it from contact with an affected person.

These articles are sourced from various avenues, all contents within Pure and Gentle Skincare website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any health care professional. Pure and Gentle Skincare is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of Pure and Gentle Skincare website or advisors. Always consult your own GP is you're in any way concerned about your health as he or she will be able to advise in greater details.