Busting Myths - Vitiligo!

Vitiligo is a long-term non-infectious skin condition characterized by patches of the skin losing their pigment, in other words, it impacts melanin production. 

Cells that produce melanin give the skin its color, and people with darker skin have higher rates of melanin production. If melanin-producing cells stop functioning, pale patches appear on the skin. The affected skin area becomes white patches with a sharp margin. Even the hair from the affected skin may also become white, affecting the inside of the mouth and nose. 

Vitiligo isn’t contagious, but it negatively impacts how someone feels about themselves. It may result in physiological stress & those affected are often stigmatized.

Let’s bust some myths about Vitiligo

  • Myth 1: Vitiligo is ContagiousNo, it is neither infectious nor contagious, and there’s no way to get it from someone else with or without physical contact. So, there is no reason to avoid people who may have visible signs of Vitiligo. This myth is unfair and harmful and unfair to people with Vitiligo. 
  • Myth 2: Consumption of certain foods can cause Vitiligo

Many people believe that the consumption of citrus fruits, eggs, or drinking milk shortly after eating fish can cause Vitiligo. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove the link between food habits and Vitiligo. 

Vitiligo is known to occur with similar incidence across all populations with different dietary habits.

  • Myth 3: Vitiligo can’t be cured

Vitiligo can’t be cured completely. However, it’s not life-threatening, and there are many treatment methods through which the spread of Vitiligo can be slowed down. The aim of these treatment methods is to create a uniform skin tone by restoring color or removing residual color. Common treatment methods are Camouflage therapy, Repigmentation therapy, Light therapy, and Surgery.

  • Myth 4: All white patches are Vitiligo

No, all white patches are not Vitiligo. It comes in different patterns that can help identify and tell its apart from other conditions. However, there are many other skin conditions like pityriasis rosea, certain birthmarks, and a fungal infection causing white patches.

  • Myth 5: Vitiligo sufferers are inferior in physical or mental capabilities. 

Vitiligo is a skin disorder and is in no way related to physical or mental.

Vitiligo occurs in about 1% or slightly more of the population worldwide. It affects all races and genders; however, it is more visible in people with darker skin. Although Vitiligo can develop in anyone of any age. Vitiligo rarely appears in the young or the elderly.

Although the causes of Vitiligo are not fully understood, there are several different theories:

  • Autoimmune disorder
  • Genetic factors
  • Neurogenic factors
  • Autodestruction

Vitiligo can also be triggered by certain events such as physical or emotional stress. As neither explanation fully accounts for the condition, a combination of these factors is responsible for Vitiligo.

If you have any queries or if you are suffering from Vitiligo, visit Siu-Ka-Pha Multispeciality Hospital. Our hospital comprises an expert dermatology department, that can help you regain confidence and feel natural.