Podcasts - 14 Apr `25Melodies and Melanin: When Vitiligo Affects What You Hear (Ep. 29)

Podcast

Vitiligo is known for its impact on skin—but what if it also changes the way you hear the world?

In this episode, we explore the surprising link between vitiligo and high-frequency hearing loss, drawing on recent research and insights from the Vitiligo Research Foundation.

You’ll learn how melanocytes—cells that give skin its color—also play a key role in the inner ear, and how their loss may affect certain sound frequencies. While most people with vitiligo won’t notice a change in daily hearing, the science suggests a subtle shift worth paying attention to.

Tune in to discover how vitiligo may reach beyond the skin, and why a hearing check might be a sound idea.

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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...

  • What tests for vitiligo should be done?

    Before starting vitiligo therapy, several tests may be recommended to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan: Physical Examination A thorough physical exa...

  • What is vitiligo?

     Vitiligo (pronounced vit-ill-EYE-go) is a generally unpredictable skin disease that causes a gradual loss of skin color and overlying hair on different parts of the body. Cont...