Vitiligo: Have white patches appeared on your face or hands? Does the condition spread through touch? Understand it in simple terms..

You have likely seen people with white patches on their skin. Our society harbors various misconceptions and superstitions regarding this condition. People often mistake it for a fungal infection or a contagious disease spread through touch; however, medical science advises against such beliefs.

The condition involving white patches on the skin is known as vitiligo. It is a disorder in which the cells responsible for skin pigmentation are destroyed, resulting in the appearance of white patches on certain areas of the skin.

Health experts state that vitiligo is neither contagious nor spread through sitting together, sharing meals, or shaking hands. Despite this, numerous misconceptions and myths persist in society, potentially increasing mental and social pressure on patients. Let us understand why this condition occurs.

What are white patches (vitiligo)?

Health experts explain that vitiligo is a skin condition classified as an autoimmune disorder. In autoimmune diseases, the body's immune system mistakenly begins to destroy its own healthy cells.

Vitiligo occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes.
Melanocytes are the cells that produce melanin, which provides color to the skin, hair, and, to some extent, the eyes.

Why does this condition occur?

According to experts, this condition can begin at any age. Genetic factors, immune system irregularities, and certain environmental factors are considered responsible for vitiligo.

The exact cause of this condition remains unclear; however, many reports attribute it to an autoimmune response.
Additionally, genetic predisposition, oxidative stress, severe skin injury, exposure to certain chemicals, and—in rare cases—other biological factors may play a role.

Approximately 20% to 30% of people with vitiligo have a close relative who already suffers from the condition. Who is at higher risk?

A higher risk has been observed in individuals with certain autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disorders, type 1 diabetes, or alopecia areata. However, most people do not exhibit any clear risk factors.

Initially, small white spots may appear on the hands, face, around the lips or eyes, on the feet, fingers, elbows, or knees. Over time, these spots may enlarge or merge. In some individuals, hair on the scalp, beard, or eyebrows may also begin to turn white.

Does it spread through touch?