Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that affects the pigment of the skin and parts of the hair. This causes the affected areas to become lighter in color. It has even been found to affect the inside of the mouth and the eyes. The condition is not dangerous or contagious but can be hard to live with. Often, many people get low self-esteem as a result of vitiligo. Vitiligo often occurs at a young age and continues for the rest of your life. It has been found to affect all genders, races, and ethnicities. At Essential Dermatology, we can work with you to find a treatment that will help you feel confident and beautiful in your skin.
What Causes Vitiligo?
Researchers are not completely sure what causes vitiligo. It happens when the melanocytes in the skin die off. Melanocytes are the cells in the skin which cause pigment, making your skin color. When the cells die, the pigment goes away. It is believed that this loss of pigment may be connected to an autoimmune disorder which causes the body to attack the cells. Some also believe that there is a connection between thyroid disease and vitiligo. It has also been shown to be congenital, if you have a family member with it then you are more likely to develop this condition.
Symptoms of Vitiligo
- Blotchy, white patches of skin
- Loss of color in the hair
- Loss of color in the eye
- Itchiness or pain
- Photosensitivity
- Tendency to sunburn
Treatments for Vitiligo?
For patients who wish to treat their vitiligo, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Krathen has many different options. Treatment methods will be chosen depending on your cosmetic goals as well as your preference for long-term versus short-term solutions. For temporary solutions, there are many cosmetics that can be used, such as makeup, self-tanners, and dyes. If you wish for a long-term solution, there are various medications and laser treatments that can help to restore the pigment. Discuss your treatment options and concerns with Dr. Krathen during a one-on-one consultation at Essential Dermatology. If you experience any pain or discomfort, Dr. Krathen can prescribe some medication to mitigate this.
For patients who wish to treat their vitiligo, Dr. Krathen has many different options. Treatment methods will be chosen depending on your cosmetic goals as well as your preference for long-term versus short-term solutions. For temporary solutions, there are many cosmetics that can be used such as makeup, self-tanners, and dyes. If you wish for a long-term solution, there are various medications, NeoLux™ phototherapy, and laser treatments that can help to restore the pigment.
Vitiligo FAQs
What causes vitiligo to affect skin pigmentation?
Vitiligo develops when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin, become damaged or destroyed. Researchers believe autoimmune activity may play a significant role, causing the body to mistakenly attack its own pigment-producing cells. Genetics may also contribute, especially when there is a family history of the condition. Dr. Michael Krathen evaluates pigmentation changes carefully at Essential Dermatology in Natick and Needham, MA, to confirm the diagnosis and recommend personalized treatment strategies for long-term management.
Can vitiligo affect areas other than the skin?
Yes. Although vitiligo is most recognized for causing white patches on the skin, it may also affect hair, the inside of the mouth, and even areas around the eyes. Some patients notice premature whitening of scalp hair, eyebrows, or eyelashes as pigment changes progress. Vitiligo itself is not dangerous or contagious, but the cosmetic effects can significantly impact self-confidence. Dr. Krathen works closely with patients to address both the physical and emotional aspects of living with vitiligo.
Why are people with vitiligo more sensitive to sunlight?
Pigment helps protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation. When pigment-producing cells are lost, affected areas become more vulnerable to sunburn and sun-related irritation. Patients with vitiligo often notice increased photosensitivity in depigmented patches because the skin lacks melanin’s natural protective properties. Daily sunscreen use and sun-protective habits are especially important. Dr. Michael Krathen educates patients throughout Needham and Natick on proper skin protection strategies designed to minimize irritation and help preserve overall skin health.
Can vitiligo continue spreading over time?
Yes. Vitiligo may remain stable for some individuals, while others experience gradual or unpredictable spreading of depigmented areas over time. Some patients notice cycles of progression followed by periods of stability. Because the condition behaves differently in every patient, ongoing dermatologic monitoring is important. Dr. Krathen develops individualized treatment plans at Essential Dermatology based on each patient’s symptoms, cosmetic goals, and disease progression to help manage vitiligo as effectively and comfortably as possible.
What treatment options are available for vitiligo?
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of pigment loss, treatment goals, and patient preferences. Some individuals choose temporary cosmetic approaches such as makeup, self-tanners, or dyes to camouflage affected areas. Others pursue longer-term treatments including topical medications, laser treatments, or NeoLux™ phototherapy designed to help stimulate repigmentation. Dr. Michael Krathen carefully customizes treatment recommendations at Essential Dermatology to help patients achieve the most natural-looking and satisfying results possible while maintaining healthy skin.
Is vitiligo connected to other medical conditions?
Research suggests vitiligo may sometimes be associated with other autoimmune disorders, particularly thyroid disease. While not every patient with vitiligo develops additional medical conditions, dermatologists often review personal and family medical history carefully when evaluating pigment loss. Understanding possible underlying factors may help guide long-term care recommendations. Dr. Krathen performs comprehensive evaluations at Essential Dermatology to help patients throughout Natick and Needham better understand their condition and receive personalized guidance for ongoing skin and overall health management.
Where can I find vitiligo treatment in Natick or Needham, MA?
Patients seeking professional evaluation and treatment for vitiligo can schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Krathen at Essential Dermatology. The practice offers personalized care plans that may include cosmetic camouflage techniques, medications, NeoLux™ phototherapy, and laser treatments depending on each patient’s goals and symptoms. Dr. Krathen helps patients throughout the greater Boston area manage vitiligo while supporting confidence and skin health. To schedule an appointment, call Natick at (508) 545-9713 or Needham at (508) 484-8292.
Schedule a Consultation
There is no way to prevent vitiligo from occurring, but you can get treatment to help prevent it from worsening. If you would like to find an option that helps manage your symptoms, then come talk to Dr. Krathen at Essential Dermatology. Call our office at (508) 545-9713 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
