Vitiligo

Vitiligo can cause skin discoloration that can make it hard to feel confident in your appearance. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help when you rely on a skilled team of professionals like Frank Samarin, MD, and the team at Mountaintop Dermatology in Colorado Springs, Colorado. If you need to schedule a visit, online booking is available around the clock, or you can call the office during normal business hours to check appointment availability.

What is the cause of vitiligo and what is my risk level?

Vitiligo affects roughly 1% of the world’s population. It develops when the cells in your skin that create pigment either die or stop functioning properly. Pigment is what gives your skin its distinct coloration, so when those cells fail, patches of abnormally light or white skin develop. 

Researchers are unsure of the exact causes of vitiligo, but believe there may be a genetic component. Vitiligo is also believed to be an autoimmune condition in which your body mistakenly launches an attack against healthy cells. Triggering events like severe sunburn, stress, or chemical exposure can also lead to vitiligo.

How do I know if I’m developing vitiligo?

The early stages of vitiligo usually present small areas of skin that appear lighter than the surrounding skin. These changes often develop on the hands, feet, forearms, or face, as well as in the genital area. 

You might also experience patches of graying hair, which can affect not only your scalp but also your eyelashes, beard, or eyebrows. Some people notice loss of pigment in their mucus membranes, which include the tissue in the nose and mouth. 

There is no pain associated with vitiligo. If you develop a rash or any form of pain, schedule a diagnostic exam right away to determine the cause. 

Is there any way to treat vitiligo?

While vitiligo cannot be cured, there are treatments that can slow the progression of the condition and help restore some color to affected areas. If Dr. Samarin diagnoses vitiligo, he will explain all available treatment paths and help you find the right approach. 

Prescription medications can be helpful, including corticosteroid creams, which work best in the early stages of vitiligo. Corticosteroid injections or pills are also an option, especially for people who have symptoms that develop rapidly.

There are oral medications that can help slow pigment loss, but these drugs carry a list of side effects. Be sure to let Dr. Samarin know about any other medications you take prior to starting a new prescription. 

Light therapy is also a good option for treating vitiligo, and can be especially effective when combined with drug therapy. Ultraviolet B therapy helps by slowing the progression of vitiligo. 

When you’re ready to learn more, call the office to schedule a visit at Mountaintop Dermatology. You can also book online using the simple scheduling tool.