Yes, I am the 1%

 Let’s address the elephant in the room: I live with a skin condition called Vitiligo. Vitiligo is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that causes patches of skin to lose its color. This happens when skin cells that make pigment (called melanocytes) are attacked and destroyed, causing the skin to turn a milky-white color. It is not contagious.

Vitiligo affects only about 1% of the population and includes any age or race, though it's most visible on people with darker skin tones.  It is rare that I meet other people with Vitiligo. 

Vitiligo is considered an autoimmune disease. Normally, the immune system works throughout your body to fight off and defend your body from viruses, bacteria, and infection. In people with autoimmune diseases, the immune cells attack the body’s own healthy tissues by mistake. 

Although there is no cure for vitiligo, some recent treatments can be effective at stopping the progression or even re-pigment some areas.  I have to be very careful in the sun because there is no barrier to protect my skin where the color was lost.

For me, Vitiligo first appeared in 2016 as a tiny spot, but after receiving the COVID vaccine, it seemed to spread rapidly. Now, it's most visible on my hands, with patches in other areas of my body. While I choose to cover my facial spots to keep the focus on my message, I’ve embraced this change in my life.    

Living with vitiligo can be emotionally challenging. Some people feel embarrassed, rejected, ashamed, lonely or upset about the changes in their appearance. Sometimes, this can lead to low self-esteem and depression.  However, I’m always open to questions from those who are curious. Though our patches are unusual, they’re a part of what makes us unique. 

Through my platform, I aim to raise awareness and educate others, so Vitiligo is no longer a mystery.

Did you know these famous people have vitiligo?