The loss of pigment from hairs in the eyelash area accentuates the color loss of vitiligo. In fair skin patients, vitiligo can be subtle. The total loss of pigment cells make these patients high risk for sunburn within the affected areas. This image displays areas of complete absence of skin pigment typical of vitiligo. This image displays one spot of lightened pigment due to vitiligo. In people with darker skin, the areas of pigment loss in vitiligo are quite distinct. This image displays a patient with vitiligo that affects his beard area and the area around his lips. This image displays vitiligo on the backs of feet. This image displays an almost total pigment loss in a patient with vitiligo. Vitiligo is an auto-immune condition that results in flat areas of pigment loss. Fingers are a common location. The pigment loss in this woman with vitiligo forms an irregular patch.
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Vitiligo:
Information for adults

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Picture of Vitiligo: The loss of pigment from hairs in the eyelash area accentuates the color loss of vitiligo. Divider line
The loss of pigment from hairs in the eyelash area accentuates the color loss of vitiligo.
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Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
Your doctor may try any of the following:
  • Topical steroid creams or ointments to help restore skin color. Use these with caution because of the risk of tissue damage (atrophy) with prolonged use, particularly on the face and skin fold areas.
  • Topical non-steroid medications, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, which deactivate immune cells, may be of benefit. These medications, however, can increase your risk of developing cancer (malignancy).
  • Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy for lesions that do not affect the joints. 
  • For very large or widespread lesions in dark-skinned patients, topical chemicals remove color (depigment) the normal skin.
  • Superficial skin grafts, especially in hard-to-treat (recalcitrant) locations, such as over joints.
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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