What are the early symptoms of vitiligo?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on March 16, 2025
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The early symptoms of vitiligo generally appear as a white patch on a localized area of the skin. Initially, the color is not very white, appearing as a vague, hazy white patch. As the condition gradually progresses, the color of the patch becomes whiter and its area expands. If the white patch appears in areas with hair, such as eyebrows, armpits, or the scalp, the hair in these areas will also gradually turn white. Some patients with vitiligo may experience localized itching, but most patients do not experience any discomfort. Once vitiligo is discovered, it is crucial to seek formal treatment at a hospital. Generally, a combination of oral and topical medications, along with 308 laser therapy, yields relatively good results. Treatment can be more challenging if the affected area is large, whereas smaller areas are relatively easier to treat.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Will vitiligo recur after skin grafting?

Vitiligo generally enters a stable phase after which skin grafting is quite effective. The stable phase is typically reached when, after about a year of treatment, there are basically no changes, no worsening or improvement in the condition, which is referred to as the stable phase. Using the method of skin grafting to directly implant melanocytes into the depigmented regions tends to be effective. Generally, after skin grafting, melanin quickly proliferates and extensively covers the depigmented areas. However, the factors causing this disease are quite complex. Some individuals, especially those with lower immunity, might experience recurrence even after a successful graft. Therefore, personal health status and clinical evidence should be considered individually.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How to treat vitiligo that has spread extensively on the body?

Vitiligo is related to reduced immunity, genetic inheritance, copper deficiency in the body, or localized trauma. In some people, the condition can develop quickly, with small white patches appearing and then rapidly spreading over the body in a short period. If this occurs, it is advisable to seek standardized treatment at a dermatology department of a reputable hospital, where oral medications and topical applications are used in combination with 308 laser treatment for faster effects. If the condition does not respond well to treatment, small doses of oral steroids may be used to manage it. During treatment, it is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods, not stay up late, eat more black-colored foods, avoid consuming too much vitamin C-rich food, engage in more exercise, and strengthen immunity.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can vitiligo patches be tattooed?

Vitiligo is related to decreased immunity, genetic heredity, copper deficiency in the body, or local trauma. Therefore, it is advised not to tattoo over vitiligo patches, as tattooing can cause trauma to the skin surface and potentially lead to more severe loss of melanin. People with this condition should avoid getting tattoos. They should seek standard treatment at a regular hospital's dermatology department. Treatment typically involves oral medications, topical medications, and the use of a 308-nm excimer laser, which can accelerate recovery. During treatment, it is important to exercise regularly to boost immunity. It is recommended to eat more black foods and to avoid an excess of vitamin C-rich foods and spicy, stimulating foods. Try to avoid staying up late.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can people with vitiligo eat beef?

People with vitiligo can eat beef. Beef is delicious and is a high-protein, low-fat quality meat, ranking as the second largest meat product consumed in China. Patients with vitiligo should eat more foods rich in tyrosine or minerals such as copper and iron, including beef, as well as rabbit meat, pork, animal liver, chicken eggs, duck eggs, milk, and some shellfish, such as snails, etc.

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Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
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early symptoms of vitiligo

The best treatment period for vitiligo is in its early stages, but the early symptoms of vitiligo are easy to overlook, often presenting as smooth white patches the size of nails, with few depigmented patches, typically only 1-2, and most commonly appearing on exposed areas of the skin. Sometimes, the color of the depigmented patches is not very different from the surrounding skin, making it difficult to detect. Vitiligo generally occurs in areas susceptible to sunlight exposure and friction damage, and it mostly affects adolescents, generally before the age of 20. Many teenagers might feel too young to experience serious health issues, thus neglecting to monitor their health. However, early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial and delays or blind treatment should be avoided.