
Vitiligo Treatment
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Vitiligo Treatment in Terre Haute & Vincennes
When your skin loses pigment, it can feel like it takes something more than color with it.
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes white or light patches of skin to develop — often in visible, emotionally sensitive areas. It's not harmful. It's not contagious. But it can deeply impact confidence, identity, and peace of mind.
At Biltmore Dermatology, we don't just treat vitiligo — we treat the person living with it.
What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a skin condition where the body's immune system destroys melanocytes — the cells that produce pigment (melanin). This leads to patches of skin losing their natural color, often in symmetrical or random patterns. It can affect:
- Skin (most common)
- Hair (causing white or gray streaks)
- Eyelashes or eyebrows
- Mucous membranes (inside the mouth or nose)
It can appear at any age, progress slowly or rapidly, and may stop or reverse unpredictably.
Common Patterns of Vitiligo
- Focal: Small, isolated patches
- Segmental: One side or section of the body only
- Generalized: Widespread patches across multiple areas (most common)
- Acrofacial: Around the eyes, mouth, hands, feet, or genital area
- Universal: Nearly complete loss of skin pigment (rare)
What Vitiligo Is Not
- It's not caused by poor hygiene
- It's not contagious
- It's not always progressive or permanent
- It's not something to be ashamed of
You deserve answers without judgment — and care without assumptions.
What Causes Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is believed to be autoimmune in origin, meaning the body mistakenly attacks its pigment-producing cells. It may also have links to:
- Genetics (family history of vitiligo or autoimmune conditions)
- Environmental triggers (sunburn, skin trauma, stress)
- Other autoimmune conditions (thyroid disease, alopecia areata, type 1 diabetes)
We look at the full picture of your health, not just your skin.
How We Treat Vitiligo at Biltmore Dermatology
There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are effective treatments that may:
- Slow or halt pigment loss
- Encourage repigmentation
- Improve overall skin appearance
- Support your emotional well-being
Treatment Options for Vitiligo
Treatment options at Biltmore Dermatology may include:
- Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or Opzelura: These topical therapies help calm the immune response and may support repigmentation.
- Excimer laser therapy: Often recommended for small, stubborn spots that haven't responded to topical treatment.
- Skin camouflage techniques: Cosmetic coverage options are available for those who want to conceal areas of pigment loss.
- Support for the emotional impact: Because vitiligo is more than a skin condition — it can affect confidence, identity, and daily life.
At Biltmore Dermatology, we work to change that experience with thoughtful, individualized care.
We're Here to Help
Our team can:
- Confirm the diagnosis with a detailed skin exam — and, if needed, a biopsy
- Develop a personalized treatment plan based on the extent, location, and progression of your vitiligo
- Support you beyond the physical symptoms with compassionate, ongoing care
Living with Vitiligo
Living with vitiligo isn't just about the skin. It's about navigating visibility, perception, and identity — often alone.
At Biltmore Dermatology, we work to change that experience.
We're here to:
- Confirm the diagnosis (including skin exam, Wood's lamp, or biopsy if needed)
- Rule out other autoimmune connections
- Help you understand what's happening and what's next
- Support you whether you want treatment — or simply want clarity
Why Choose Biltmore Dermatology?
- 24+ years of dermatology experience
- Board-certified dermatology provider Ryan T. Patterson, NP-C, DCNP
- Compassionate care with no pressure or assumptions
- Experience treating all skin tones, ages, and vitiligo types
- Serving Terre Haute, Vincennes, and surrounding Indiana communities
Let's Talk About What You Need — Not Just What We Can Do
Whether you're newly noticing pigment loss or have lived with vitiligo for years, you deserve a place that sees you fully.
No referral is needed. Walk in today. Stay for the care and expertise.
Come for answers. Come for clarity. Come for the care.