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What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition characterized by loss of skin colour, leading to spots or patches of “depigmented” or lighter coloured skin. Anyone can develop vitiligo, but it’s more common in those with a family history of the condition.

Vitiligo is not contagious or life-threatening, but it can potentially affect one’s mood and/or quality of life, especially when cosmetically bothersome or extensive.

What are the symptoms ?

  • Skin: Most patients notice one or more areas of paler or lighter skin.
  • Increased risk of sunburn: affected areas of skin that have reduced or absent pigment become more sensitive to UV radiation.
  • Hair: The hairs in the affected areas can also lose their colour. These include hair on the scalp, eyelash or eyebrows.
  • Eye problems: In some cases, vitiligo can also affect the pigmentation of the eye, leading to inflammation and vision impairment.

How is the diagnosis made?

  • Physical examination: Your dermatologist will begin by conducting a thorough physical examination of your skin. Your specialist may use a specialized lamp (Wood’s lamp) to visualize the affected areas during inspection.
  • Skin biopsy: In some cases, the dermatologist may need to remove a small sample of the affected skin and analyse it under a microscope to get an accurate diagnosis.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases to rule out possible underlying conditions.

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to improve the appearance of affected areas, restore skin colour and to prevent progression or development of new areas. Depending on the severity, extent and activity of vitiligo, treatment options in Singapore include:

Types Of Vitiligo

The most common form, characterised by symmetrical, widespread white patches that can affect any part of the body.

Affects only one side or part of the body, usually appearing in a specific segment or area, and often begins at a younger age.

Characterised by a few scattered white patches in one area and generally less widespread than other types.

Affecting mucous membranes like the inside of the mouth or nose and is often associated with generalised vitiligo.

Manage Your Vitiligo With A Qualified Dermatologist

Consult our MOH-accredited dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

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Vitiligo Risk Factors

While anyone can develop vitiligo, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition, such as:

  • Family history
  • Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disorders or alopecia areata
  • Stressful events or physical or emotional stress
  • Skin injuries, such as cuts, burns, or abrasions (Koebner phenomenon).
  • Exposure to certain chemicals, such as phenols or catechols

Why Choose Us

Modern & Patient-Centred Dermatological Care

We are dedicated to your skin health and well-being. Our results-oriented approach is suitable for a wide range of hair, skin and nail conditions. Consult our MOH-accredited dermatologist for a personalised treatment plan.

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Personalised Treatment Plans

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Results-Oriented Approach

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Focused Aftercare For All

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Honest & Ethical Practices

Billing & Insurance

Private and Corporate Insurance

You can use your Integrated Shield Plans to pay for certain procedures. Speak to us to learn more, and you’ll be surprised at how affordable private healthcare can be. 

Dr. Lee Hwee Chyen

Medical Director & Consultant Dermatologist

MBBS (S'pore) MRCP (UK) FAMS (Dermatology)

Special Interests In:
  • Paediatric Dermatology
  • Women’s Dermatology
  • Procedural Dermatology & Lasers

Dr. Lee Hwee Chyen is an accredited Adult & Paediatric dermatologist managing a wide range of skin, hair and nail conditions. The clinic provides services for medical, surgical, cosmetic, women’s and paediatric dermatology.

  • MBBS (National University of Singapore, Singapore)
  • MRCP (Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom)
  • Specialist Accreditation Board, Dermatology (Singapore)
  • FAMS (Academy of Medicine of Singapore, Singapore)
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    101 Irrawaddy Road #16-09
    Royal Square at Novena, Singapore 329565

    +65‎ 6320 ‎0152

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Vitiligo is caused by the destruction or malfunction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, resulting in the formation of white patches on the skin.

    There is currently no cure for vitiligo, but various treatments can help manage the symptoms, restore skin colour, and improve the patient’s quality of life.

    Vitiligo is not a contagious condition and cannot be transmitted from one person to another through touch, saliva, or any other means.

    Sometimes when vitiligo is actively spreading, the affected areas may feel itchy. Otherwise, vitiligo generally does not cause significant symptoms.