What is the main characteristic of vitiligo?

The primary characteristic of vitiligo is localized loss of skin pigmentation. This condition occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color), are destroyed or unable to function properly. As a result, patches of skin become lighter than the surrounding areas, creating a contrast that is usually quite distinctive. The changes in skin color can appear anywhere on the body and may progress over time.

This accurate understanding differentiates vitiligo from other skin conditions that may present with different symptoms, such as itchiness or the formation of warts. In vitiligo, the absence of melanin contributes to the loss of color without associated symptoms like itching or bleeding, which are typical of other dermatological issues.