Vitiligo happens when pigment producing cells die or stop working. This causes loss in skin color and it can affect any part of the body including the hands, mouth, hair and eyes. Treatments are available.
Compassionate Care for Skin Color Loss — Restore Confidence and Balance
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigment, resulting in white or lightened areas. While vitiligo is not medically dangerous or contagious, it can deeply impact a person’s confidence, self-image, and emotional well-being. At Meira Dermatology, we understand the sensitive nature of this condition and offer personalized, advanced treatment options to help restore your skin tone and peace of mind.
Vitiligo occurs when melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin — are destroyed or stop functioning. This leads to areas of depigmented (white) skin that may gradually spread over time. The condition can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity.
Common areas affected include:
- Hands and fingers
- Around the eyes and mouth
- Scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair
- Genitals and joints
- Mucous membranes (inside the mouth or nose)
There are two main types of vitiligo:
- Non-segmental (generalized) – symmetrical patches across both sides of the body
- Segmental – more localized and may affect only one part or side
The exact cause is unknown, but vitiligo is believed to be an autoimmune condition, meaning the body mistakenly attacks its own melanocytes. Other possible contributing factors include:
- Genetics and family history
- Previous skin trauma (Koebner phenomenon)
- Stress or emotional triggers
- Thyroid or autoimmune disorders
- Sunburn or chemical exposure
While there is no cure for vitiligo, we offer customized treatment plans to help:
Restore pigmentation
Slow the spread
Improve cosmetic appearance
Treatment options include:
Topical medications – Corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors to reduce inflammation and stimulate pigment
Phototherapy (light therapy) – Controlled UVB light to stimulate melanocyte activity
Camouflage cosmetics – Medical-grade makeup to blend uneven skin tones
Micropigmentation (tattooing) – For small, stable areas (like lips or hands)
Surgical options – Skin grafts or melanocyte transplantation for carefully selected candidates
Microskin and skin dyeing agents – Temporary solutions for larger affected areas
Lifestyle and emotional support – To address self-esteem, stress, and skin care habits
Early evaluation is key to managing vitiligo. Contact us if:
- You notice sudden or spreading white patches on the skin
- Vitiligo is affecting your face, hands, or visible areas
- The condition is affecting your confidence or emotional well-being
- You want to explore safe, modern treatment options
We provide supportive, judgment-free care for adults and children living with vitiligo.
At Meira Dermatology, we’re committed to helping you feel confident in your skin again. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with vitiligo for years, our experienced dermatology team is here to walk with you every step of the way.
Located in Largo, FL, proudly serving patients from Clearwater, Seminole, Belleair, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Pinellas Park, and across the Tampa Bay area.
Call (727) 777-6098
Or schedule your personalized consultation online
Let’s create a treatment plan that helps you reclaim your natural beauty and confidence.
