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My Way to Well

Vitiligo


The Numbers

Living with vitiligo can feel isolating at times, but you're not alone: In April 2023, SELF surveyed 100 people in the U.S. to understand what mental, emotional, and physical health looks like for individuals with depigmented skin.


The Stories

No two vitiligo stories are the same. In this section, you can hear directly from patients living with the condition about how it impacts their lives, and how they take care of their physical and mental health.

Here’s How Vitiligo Can Take an Emotional Toll, From People Who Get It

81% of people with vitiligo say the condition significantly affects their personal or professional life.

SOURCE: SELF/Olson Research Group, February 2023

6 Ways to Embrace Your Depigmentation, According to People With Vitiligo

Why Is There Still So Much Stigma Tied to Vitiligo?

Note to Self

My Vitiligo Toolkit

We asked people with vitiligo what tools make living with their condition a bit easier. Here are a few of their essential self-care items.



"To stay moisturized daily, I opt for products that have natural butters and oils."



"Body scrubs help me have healthy-looking skin."



"Drinking water is essential for staying hydrated both inside and outside."



“I like to use UVB light treatments two to three times per week."



"Since my diagnosis, my eyes have become more sensitive to brightness. I’ve grown my collection of sunglasses to shield some of the depigmented skin around them.”



"My toolkit includes a growing collection of hats. I have several from street vendors that I’ve collected during trips to Europe."



"I make sure to apply additional sunscreen on days I plan to be out in the sun for extended periods."


The Journey

Finding the right treatment for vitiligo can be a journey. It may take some time to discover which one works best for you. Here, board-certified dermatologists and people living with vitiligo offer perspective on what you can expect along the way.

The Winding Journey to Finding the Right Vitiligo Treatment

52% of people with vitiligo are satisfied with their current treatment.

SOURCE: SELF/Olson Research Group, February 2023

Pro Tips


We asked board-certified dermatologist Erum Ilyas, MD, what she really wants people with vitiligo to know about caring for their skin.