Experience that spans generations.

The exact cause of vitiligo has not yet been determined.

Hereditary vitiligo occurs in two or more first- or second-degree relatives. It may involve genes programmed to trigger the condition at some point in life or genes activated by occasional factors. Around 10% to 15% of cases fall into this group, often called genetic vitiligo.

Vitiligo at birth is extremely rare. Even hereditary vitiligo usually appears after the first year of life.

Most people with vitiligo have no affected ancestors. One hypothesis is that one or more inactive genes may be activated by internal or external factors. This pattern is often described as epigenetic vitiligo.

Possible triggers vary from person to person and may include inflammation, infections, physical trauma, burns, sunlight, hormones, environmental exposure, emotional events and stress. Because each person is unique, prevention and treatment must be discussed individually with a dermatologist.

Stress can influence the course of vitiligo, just as it can affect other health conditions and immune responses.

However, stress is not considered the cause of vitiligo. It may act as an important trigger in some people, particularly after traumatic events. Other possible triggers include skin trauma, burns, sun exposure and inflammatory skin conditions.

Not every case should be attributed to stress. The relationship is individual and difficult to measure.

When post-traumatic stress is present, psychological support may help reduce its impact and support overall care.

Excimer technology delivers targeted ultraviolet B radiation at 308 nanometers and may be used in the treatment of localized vitiligo.

It targets the affected areas while limiting exposure of unaffected skin. Temporary redness, occasional blistering or darkening around the spots may occur and should be monitored by the dermatologist.

Treatment may be combined with topical or systemic medication when medically indicated. Sessions are generally painless and the schedule depends on the clinical assessment and skin response.

Results vary according to the location, skin type, size and age of the patches, as well as each person’s response. Face and neck often respond more readily than hands and feet.

There is no single treatment that works equally well for everyone with vitiligo.

The dermatologist considers skin type, location and age of the patches, previous treatments and the presence of pigment before choosing an approach.

The response is assessed over time. A plan may be maintained when the condition stabilizes and repigmentation appears, or adjusted when the response is not favorable.

The best treatment is therefore the one that best matches the individual clinical picture and response.

Vitiligo treatment is individualized. Current approaches aim to stabilize the condition and encourage repigmentation of affected areas.

Options may include topical or oral medication, physical treatments with ultraviolet radiation and, in selected stable cases, surgical techniques.

Phototherapy options described in medical practice include PUVA, narrowband UVB at 311 nm and targeted UVB at 308 nm.

Every option requires dermatological assessment, follow-up and realistic expectations about the time needed for the skin to respond.

Vitiligo is a persistent condition in which areas of the skin lose pigment and form white patches.

The possibility of repigmentation varies and depends on the person’s biological response, how early treatment begins and adherence to medical guidance.

Some people respond quickly and others slowly. Newer patches may have a better chance of response because pigment-producing cells may still be present.

Dermatological follow-up is essential to define goals, monitor progress and adjust treatment safely.