Our skin tells many stories of sun-soaked days, life’s changes, and our unique journeys. For millions of people worldwide, it also tells the story of vitiligo, a condition that affects pigmentation and how we see ourselves.
25 June marks World Vitiligo Day, a time to raise awareness, share understanding, and celebrate those living confidently in their skin. But what is vitiligo, and why does it matter that we talk about it?
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment. It happens when the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their colour) are damaged or stop functioning.
Vitiligo can affect any part of the body and occurs in people of all skin tones, although it may be more noticeable in those with darker skin. The condition is not contagious, not life-threatening, and not caused by poor hygiene, but it can deeply affect how a person feels about themselves.
What Causes It?
The exact cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own pigment-producing cells.
Genetics can also play a role. About 20–30% of people with vitiligo have a family history of the condition. Other possible triggers include stress, skin trauma, or environmental factors, though these vary from person to person.
Who Can Get It?
Vitiligo affects around 1% of the global population. It can begin at any age, though it often appears before the age of 30. It affects people of all genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
There are two main types of vitiligo:
- Non-segmental vitiligo: The most common form, where patches appear on both sides of the body, often symmetrically.
- Segmental vitiligo: Typically begins earlier in life and affects only one part or side of the body.
How is Vitiligo Treated?
There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are treatments that may help slow its progression or improve the appearance of the skin.
Common treatment options include:
- Topical creams or corticosteroids to help restore pigment
- Light therapy (phototherapy) to stimulate pigment production
- Skin camouflage products like specialised makeup or tints
- Surgical options such as skin grafting in certain cases
- Counselling or support groups, which can play an important role in emotional well-being
The best treatment depends on the type of vitiligo, how much of the skin is affected, and personal preferences. What’s most important is having access to compassionate, informed care that puts the person, not just the condition, first.
Embracing Awareness and Acceptance
For many people, the biggest challenge is not the physical symptoms of vitiligo but the social and emotional impact. Because the condition is visible, it often comes with stares, questions, or assumptions. This can lead to anxiety, lowered self-esteem, or social withdrawal.
That’s why awareness matters.
When we normalise different skin presentations and celebrate the beauty of diversity, we create space for understanding and for people with vitiligo to feel seen, respected, and supported.
Public figures like model Winnie Harlow have helped bring visibility to vitiligo, showing that confidence doesn’t come from looking like everyone else but from owning your uniqueness.
Medshield’s Message This World Vitiligo Day
Vitiligo may change how skin looks, but it doesn’t change who a person is. This World Vitiligo Day, let’s move beyond appearances and choose empathy, education, and inclusion.
At Medshield, we believe in care that understands the whole person inside and out. Whether you’re living with vitiligo or supporting someone who is, your story matters, and support is always within reach.