Dermatology, by video or in person
Vitiligo
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Vitiligo
- Pale or white patches of skin with a clear edge
- Patches often on the face, hands, feet, around the mouth, eyes or genitals
- White hair, eyebrows or eyelashes in an affected area
- Patches that burn easily in the sun
- Patches that spread or appear in new places over time
Vitiligo is a long-term condition in which the immune system attacks the cells that give skin its colour, leaving pale or white patches. It often starts on the hands, face, around the mouth and eyes, and the genitals, and the hair in a patch can turn white. It is not contagious, it is not caused by anything you ate, and it is not leprosy. On dark skin the patches are very visible, which can affect confidence and how people are treated, and that is a real part of the condition worth raising with a doctor. Some people have thyroid problems or other immune conditions as well. Treatment can bring colour back in some patches, especially on the face, and can slow spreading, but results vary and take months.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Pale or white patches of skin with a clear edge
- Patches often on the face, hands, feet, around the mouth, eyes or genitals
- White hair, eyebrows or eyelashes in an affected area
- Patches that burn easily in the sun
- Patches that spread or appear in new places over time
When to See a Doctor
Vitiligo itself is not an emergency. Go to a hospital or see a doctor promptly if a pale patch is numb or you cannot feel pain or heat in it, or if pale patches come with weakness or tingling, because these are not signs of vitiligo and need to be checked. See a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis, if patches are spreading, or if they are affecting how you feel. A blood test for thyroid problems may be offered.
Treatment options
- Steroid creams or other prescription creams for small or new patches
- Light treatment (phototherapy) for wider vitiligo
- Sun protection on pale patches, which burn easily
- Camouflage creams and make-up matched to your skin tone
- Checks for related conditions, such as an underactive thyroid
- Talking to someone about the emotional impact, which is common
Common Questions
Is vitiligo contagious?
No. It cannot be caught or passed on by touch, food or sharing things.
Can bleaching cream treat vitiligo?
Do not use bleaching or toning creams to even out vitiligo yourself. Many contain steroids or mercury, which can damage skin. A dermatologist can advise on safe options.
Can a dermatologist see vitiligo by video?
Yes, for most people. A dermatologist can look at the patches on camera, confirm the likely diagnosis, and plan creams, tests and follow-up.
Need Help?
A skin specialist on a video call, who looks at the skin on camera, plans treatment and tells you if it needs to be seen in person.
See a dermatologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified dermatology specialist near you.
Dermatology in Lagos →Dermatology in Abuja →Dermatology in Port Harcourt →Dermatology in Jos →Dermatology in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.