Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that causes the loss of skin pigmentation in irregular blotches. The condition is harmless and can affect people of all skin types, but it is more noticeable in those with a darker complexion.
Depending on the size and location of the white patches, people with vitiligo may feel embarrassed or self-conscious of the condition. While there is currently no cure for vitiligo, it is possible to reduce the appearance and symptoms with a variety of treatments available at Gold Skin Care Center. Dr. Michael H. Gold is a board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist with extensive training and experience treating skin conditions such as vitiligo. To schedule a consultation, please call 615-383-2400 or fill out our contact form online.
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Vitiligo Causes
Vitiligo is attributed to the melanocytes, which are cells that are responsible for providing pigmentation to the skin, becoming damaged or killed. It is not known what exactly causes these cells to die, but many believe it is related to an autoimmune disorder that mistakenly causes the immune system to attack the melanocytes. Vitiligo has also been linked to genetic factors, which may be triggered by stress, sunburns, or exposure to certain chemicals.
Signs of vitiligo include:
- Patches of skin discoloration
- Premature graying or whitening of hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard
- Skin discoloration around the armpits, navel, or genitals
- Loss of pigmentation in the mouth and nose
- Loss of pigmentation in the inner layer of the eyeball
A medical dermatologist at Gold Skin Care Center can help evaluate this skin disorder and the best options for preventing irritation or damage.
Can Vitiligo Be Treated?
While there is no known cure for vitiligo, it is possible to manage the symptoms of this mysterious skin condition and even reduce its appearance. At Gold Skin Care Center, the most common treatment options for vitiligo include medications, topical ointments, laser treatments, and even light therapy.
To find out which treatment option is the most effective for you or a loved one, it is important to meet with a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist to evaluate the condition and create a personalized treatment plan. Mild cases of vitiligo may simply be covered up with makeup or self-tanning lotions, but for moderate to severe cases, more involved methods may be more effective, such as medication, lasers, or light therapies. In some severe cases, it is possible to surgically remove the colorless blotches, however, this option may result in scarring.
Contact a Board-Certified Dermatologist in Nashville
If you are living with vitiligo or other pigmentation condition, please do not wait to contact the expert dermatologists at Gold Skin Care Center. Dr. Gold and his team are highly experienced and treat each case with compassion and professionalism. We have the most advanced technology and treatment options available to treat a wide range of skin disorders and can help you get the results you are looking for.
Schedule a comprehensive consultation today by calling 615-383-2400 or submitting our online contact form.
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