FAQWhat causes vitiligo?

FAQ

Surprisingly, the causes of vitiligo are yet to be precisely established. Researchers know the cause is pre-wired in your genes, just waiting for a bad luck moment. In about half of all cases this can be a specific trigger or an unfortunate combination of benign conditions. In the other half, the cause of vitiligo remains unknown.

Psychological stress is the most frequently reported trigger for vitiligo. Severe sunburn, physical skin damage, prolonged contact with certain chemicals may induce or worsen vitiligo. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, delivery and menopause may be the culprit. Parasites and chronic gastritis that impair absorption of vital elements by the digestive system may also indirectly cause vitiligo.

Chemical triggers include materials with:

  • p-phenylenediamine (also known as para-phenylene diamine or PPD), 
  • para-tertiary butylphenol (PTBP), and
  • monobenzylether of hydroquinone (MBH), 
are commonly found in hair dyes, perfume, cosmetics, detergents, cleansers, insecticides, rubber condoms, rubber slippers, black socks and shoes, print inks, motor oil additives and germicidal soaps.

FAQOther Questions

  • Who is prone to vitiligo?

    Vitiligo can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or race. Vitiligo prevalence is between 0.76% and 1.11% of the U.S. population, including around 40% of those with the con...

  • Which diseases most commonly accompany vitiligo?

    Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease and is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases, acccording to a 10-year study. The exact diseases that accompany vitiligo can vary...

  • Can a gluten-free diet help with vitiligo?

    It's very unlikely. We have specifically looked into claims that gluten-free diet may ease symptoms of vitiligo, or completely reverse it, and found no firm scientific evidence ...