What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a chronic condition in which melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, are lost or stop functioning, leading to well-defined white or lighter patches of skin. It is generally considered an autoimmune condition and may run in families. Patches often appear on the face, hands, feet, around body openings and in skin folds, and hair in affected areas may turn white. Vitiligo can remain stable for long periods or spread over time. It is not contagious and not physically harmful, but it can affect confidence and quality of life, and the affected skin burns more easily in the sun.

Who it's for

Consider a vitiligo assessment if you notice:

• New white or lighter patches of skin
• Patches around the eyes, mouth, hands or feet
• Existing patches that are growing or multiplying
• White hairs in the eyebrows, eyelashes, scalp or beard
• Loss of color at sites of cuts, scratches or friction
• A family history of vitiligo or autoimmune conditions

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist examines your skin, often using a Wood's lamp, to confirm vitiligo and distinguish it from other causes of light patches such as fungal infection, post-inflammatory hypopigmentation or pityriasis alba. We also assess whether the condition is active and may suggest blood tests to check for related conditions, such as thyroid disease. Options may include:

• Topical treatment: anti-inflammatory or immune-modulating creams to help calm activity and encourage repigmentation
• Oral medication: short courses may be considered to slow rapidly spreading vitiligo
• Phototherapy: targeted or narrowband UVB light therapy, or referral where appropriate
• Newer targeted therapies: discussed where suitable and available
• Sun protection and camouflage advice: to protect depigmented skin and even out appearance

What to expect

Your first visit includes an examination, a discussion of how your vitiligo has changed over time and a treatment plan. Repigmentation is slow, and it often takes three to six months or longer to see improvement. The face and neck tend to respond better than the hands and feet. Some patches may not regain color. Treatment side effects depend on the method and will be explained before you start. Results vary.

Aftercare

• Protect white patches from sunburn with sunscreen and clothing
• Avoid friction, tight clothing and skin injury, which can trigger new patches
• Apply treatments consistently as instructed
• Take photos under the same lighting to track changes
• Seek support if vitiligo affects your mood or confidence

Frequently asked questions

Is vitiligo contagious?

No. Vitiligo cannot be passed from person to person through touch or any other contact.

Can vitiligo be reversed?

Some people regain color with treatment, particularly on the face, but responses vary and results are not predictable. Treatment also aims to stabilize the condition.

Can I use makeup to cover patches?

Yes. Cosmetic camouflage products can be used safely alongside treatment, and many people find them helpful.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors, directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 (Line 3). We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. Book a consultation to discuss your vitiligo and treatment options. Call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.