Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition that causes loss of skin color in patches. The discolored areas usually get bigger with time and can affect any part of the body, including hair and the inside of the mouth. Normally, the color of hair and skin is determined by melanin, which is produced by cells called melanocytes. Vitiligo occurs when these cells die or stop functioning. The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system attacks and destroys the melanocytes. Other factors that may contribute to the development of vitiligo include:

• Family history (heredity)
• A trigger event, such as stress, severe sunburn, or skin trauma, such as contact
• Chemical exposure
• Hormonal changes
• Problems with the liver

While having a close blood relative with vitiligo increases the risk of developing it, not everyone who has vitiligo in their family develops this disease. It is important to note that vitiligo is not contagious or life-threatening, but it can be stressful or make you feel bad about yourself.