Vitiligo Treatment
A condition that causes depigmentation of the skin, eyes or hair is called vitiligo. This skin condition affects people of all ethnic groups, genders and ages but often begins before the age of 21. The exact cause is unknown, but those with close relatives with vitiligo are at higher risk for the disease. Our experienced dermatology team at LM Medical NYC offers vitiligo treatment at our clinic in Manhattan.
Symptoms and Types of Vitiligo
Vitiligo can occur anywhere on the body, resulting in patches of skin that are white or without natural color. The hands, arms and legs are common areas, but vitiligo can spread over time. Some people may have streaks of white hair on the scalp or eyebrows, or color lost in the eyes. Vitiligo does not pose a health risk and most people do not have other symptoms, though some patients report itching or pain.
There are different types of vitiligo. All types result in loss of pigmentation but present slightly differently. These types include:
- Segmental or unilateral. This type of vitiligo affects one area, like a leg or the face. Many people with this type have hair color loss on the head, brows or eyelashes. This usually begins at an early age and develops for about one year, then does not progress further.
- Non-segmental or bilateral. This type of vitiligo is the most common and appears on both sides of the body. The loss of skin color tends to start and stop, growing larger, over a lifetime.
Vitiligo can be localized, generalized or even universal, with almost all pigment lost. When vitiligo begins, it is not apparent what type it will be or how much pigment will be lost.
While there is not a cure for vitiligo, there are treatments. Skin expert Dr. Morgan Rabach is a top board certified dermatologist who can diagnose and recommend a treatment plan for vitiligo. Treatments are designed to improve the appearance of the skin, which can include topical medications, light/laser therapy and other procedures.
If you or your child has vitiligo and you want to explore treatment options, contact us at LM Medical NYC. We can schedule an appointment and vitiligo consultation with world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Morgan at our clinic in Greenwich Village.