Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that causes the loss of pigmentation in irregular-shaped blotches and patches surrounded by normal skin tone. One out of every 200 Americans has an area of their body affected by vitiligo. While this harmless condition isn’t a dangerous health concern, some may consider it disfiguring, particularly when it affects a person’s face and arms.
Characterized by white patches that vary greatly by size and location, people with vitiligo may feel uncomfortable or even ashamed of this visible condition. Currently, there isn’t a known cure for vitiligo, but the good news is that innovative treatments available at Houston Skin can reduce the appearance and symptoms. Our team of expert practitioners has extensive training and experience getting long-term improvements with skin conditions like vitiligo.
What Is Vitiligo?
A person may be diagnosed with vitiligo if they experience patches of skin that turn lighter in color than their normal skin color or if areas begin to lack pigment altogether. While these white patches are not actively harmful, they can cause psychological distress from perceived imperfections and increase the risk of sunburns and dry, itchy skin. This condition is considered chronic, but advancements in medical treatments offer patients various options to help manage the symptoms and appearance of the skin.
What Causes Vitiligo?
Vitiligo occurs when the body’s immune system sends signals to the brain to destroy cells in the skin that produce melanin. In most cases, the cause of vitiligo may remain unknown. Some factors have been known to trigger this destruction of melanin, including:
- Rashes
- Sunburns
- Hormone imbalances
- Certain autoimmune diseases
Vitiligo may appear anywhere on the body, but it is most visible on the face and arms. With skin that is darker in complexion, vitiligo is more noticeable and more difficult to camouflage with cosmetics.
Unfortunately, the loss of pigment may continue to spread with aging. While there currently isn’t a way to prevent vitiligo from developing, specific, cutting-edge treatments can help improve depigmentation in affected areas.
How Can Houston Skin Improve the Loss of Pigmentation?
The first step towards improving the appearance of vitiligo is scheduling an evaluation with one of our practitioners at Houston Skinto to determine the extent of your depigmentation and desired outcomes. Several medical dermatology treatments are available to improve vitiligo, and usually, a combination approach is needed for long-term improvement. Some of the advanced techniques that we use at Houston Skin include:
Steroids
Steroids are a short-term treatment that can temporarily improve the appearance of the skin and partially restore normal pigment. The downside is that a patient needs to continue using steroids to maintain the drug’s benefits.
Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressant medications, also called calcineurin inhibitors, such as cyclosporine, work by preventing the immune system from attacking the melanin, which has been shown to help partially re-pigment specific areas. While immunosuppressants may give improvement, as with any oral medication, there is a risk of developing potential side effects.
UVB Light Therapy
UVB light, also called phototherapy, is the gold-standard treatment for helping trigger re-pigmentation in large areas of white patches. Our practitioners prescribe this treatment if you have depigmentation over large body areas.
Skin Grafting
Another option for improving white patches is a skin grafting technique that involves melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation. This technique takes a small sample of skin cells from a normally pigmented area of the body (usually the thigh) and transfers them to the affected area. This is a good option for patients whose symptoms have ceased spreading.
Meet The Team
Our Houston team of Board-Certified Dermatologists and licensed skin care providers brings a wealth of experience and a passion for healthy skin. With extensive clinical experience and the highest levels of training, our doctors are committed to delivering exceptional care and achieving optimal results for every patient. We prioritize your comfort and safety, promoting a positive and reassuring experience throughout your journey to vibrant skin. We’re honored to be your trusted provider of quality medical dermatology care and your partners in achieving and maintaining your skin’s health.
Feel Good About Your Skin
Ready to unlock your skin’s full potential? Schedule a vitiligo consultation at one of our convenient Houston Skin locations today. Our board-certified dermatologists will provide a personalized assessment and recommend the ideal treatments to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant skin. Call now or schedule a consultation online to take the first step towards a more confident, radiant you.
