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Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder causing patches of skin to lose their pigment due to melanocytes (pigment-making cells) being attacked and destroyed.
What is it?
Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition that causes skin patches to lose their hue and develop into a pale white color, due to the absence of melanin - the pigment that gives the skin its color. In simpler terms, certain areas of your skin lose their natural color and form white regions, known as macules or patches. Macules are smaller than five millimeters, while patches are five millimeters or larger. Some individuals with vitiligo experience their hair turning white in the affected regions.
This condition commonly starts in individuals in their 20s, initially appearing on the face, arms, hands, or feet. Over time, the condition tends to progress, with even more areas of the skin losing their pigmentation. Vitiligo can affect people of all skin colors, but lighter patches of skin tend to stand out more on darker or tanned skin tones.
How is it treated?
At Midwest Center for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vitiligo, whether it's restricted to small, localized areas, or more generalized, affecting numerous body parts. We have been successful in restoring skin color for many patients.
If you are seeking treatment of vitiligo, our team will devise a strategy tailored to your age, overall health status, vitiligo type, affected body areas and the rate at which the condition is progressing.
We employ a variety of treatments including medications and medicated creams, such as corticosteroids, and light therapy to alleviate skin discoloration. However, our therapeutic options extend beyond these. We also provide pigmentation therapy, laser treatment, skin graft procedures, cell transplantation surgery and camouflage therapy. It's crucial to understand that effective vitiligo treatments take time and some patients may need a more intensive approach to see improvement. Book an appointment at our medical practice in Farmington Hills, Shelby Township, Clinton Township, Warren, or St. Claire Shores, Michigan, to begin your journey towards reclaiming your skin color.