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

  • Can chemicals cause vitiligo?

    Certain chemicals can trigger vitiligo, leading to a condition known as chemical-induced vitiligo. While clinically and histologically indistinguishable from other types of viti...

  • What is the best therapy for localized vitiligo?

    Localized vitiligo, where the white patches are limited to one or a few areas of the body, can be managed with a few treatment approaches. The best therapy usually depends on th...

  • 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...