Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the melanocytes responsible for producing skin pigment (melanin).

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors are thought to contribute, including:

• Genetic predisposition

• Autoimmune diseases

• Environmental triggers

• Skin injury or trauma (Koebner phenomenon)

• Emotional or physical stress in some individuals

People with vitiligo are slightly more likely to have other autoimmune conditions, particularly:

• Autoimmune thyroid disease

• Type 1 diabetes

• Pernicious anaemia

• Alopecia areata

Your dermatologist may recommend further investigations if another autoimmune condition is suspected.

Vitiligo causes areas of skin to lose their normal colour, resulting in smooth white patches with well-defined borders.

The condition commonly affects the:

• Face

• Eyelids

• Lips

• Hands and fingers

• Wrists

• Elbows

• Knees

• Feet

• Around the mouth and eyes

• Armpits

• Groin

• Genital area

Hair growing within affected skin may also become white. Some people notice whitening of the eyebrows, eyelashes, beard or scalp hair.

Vitiligo can affect a small area of skin or become more widespread over time. The course is unpredictable—some people develop only a few stable patches, while others experience gradual progression.

Vitiligo is usually classified into two main types.

Non-segmental vitiligo

This is the most common form and usually affects both sides of the body in a symmetrical pattern. New patches may appear over time, and the condition may progress in episodes.

Segmental vitiligo

Segmental vitiligo usually affects one side of the body and often develops earlier in life. It tends to stabilise after the initial period of spread.

Vitiligo is usually diagnosed during a consultation with a Specialist Dermatologist based on its characteristic appearance.

A Wood's lamp (ultraviolet light) may be used to highlight areas of pigment loss that are difficult to see with the naked eye.

Occasionally, additional investigations such as blood tests may be recommended to screen for associated autoimmune conditions, particularly thyroid disease.

Skin biopsy is rarely required.

Treatment aims to:

• Stop the immune system attacking pigment cells

• Encourage repigmentation

• Prevent further spread

• Improve cosmetic appearance and confidence

The most appropriate treatment depends on the extent of vitiligo, the areas affected and how active the condition is.

Treatment options include:

• Prescription anti-inflammatory creams

• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (particularly for the face and skin folds)

• Narrowband UVB phototherapy

• Short courses of oral medication for rapidly progressing vitiligo in selected patients

• Cosmetic camouflage products

• Sunscreen to protect depigmented skin

Early treatment often gives the best chance of successful repigmentation.

Narrowband UVB phototherapy is considered one of the most effective treatments for widespread vitiligo.

Treatment works by reducing the abnormal immune response and stimulating the remaining melanocytes to produce pigment.

Phototherapy is most effective for:

• Recent or active vitiligo

• Widespread vitiligo

• Vitiligo affecting the face, neck and trunk

• Children and adults

Treatment is usually performed 2–3 times per week, and several months of treatment are often required before significant improvement is seen.

At Mermaid Beach Dermatology, phototherapy is performed using our medical-grade Narrowband UVB cabinet under the supervision of our Specialist Dermatologists.

Phototherapy appointments are bulk billed.

There is currently no permanent cure for vitiligo. However, many patients achieve significant repigmentation and long-term disease control with modern treatments, particularly when treatment is started early.

Even after successful treatment, some patients may experience recurrence and require maintenance therapy.

Vitiligo can affect emotional wellbeing as much as physical appearance. Many patients report reduced confidence or self-consciousness, particularly when visible areas such as the face or hands are affected.

Helpful measures include:

• Using SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to protect depigmented skin from sunburn

• Avoiding unnecessary skin trauma where possible

• Using cosmetic camouflage products if desired

• Seeking treatment early if new patches develop

• Attending regular follow-up appointments if the disease is active

Our Specialist Dermatologists provide personalised care for patients with vitiligo using the latest evidence-based treatments.

We offer:

• Accurate diagnosis

• Comprehensive assessment for associated autoimmune conditions

• Prescription topical therapies

• Medical-grade Narrowband UVB phototherapy

• Individualised treatment plans

• Long-term monitoring and support

Our goal is to stabilise the condition, encourage repigmentation where possible and help patients feel confident in their skin.