Vitiligo

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Many times, vitiligo cannot be prevented. Safety measures to avoid cuts and scrapes to the skin can be helpful. Sunscreen products can help prevent sunburns and may slow pigment loss. Stress management may lessen the impact of vitiligo.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

The pigment loss of vitiligo may continue and can be disfiguring. However, many people will go for years with stable pigment loss. Pigment can return by itself. Treatment also can help pigmentation come back.

What are the risks to others?

Vitiligo is not contagious. Other family members are at higher risk of developing vitiligo because of shared genetic factors.