Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment, resulting in white patches on the skin. This occurs when the cells that produce melanin, called melanocytes, are destroyed or stop functioning. Vitiligo can affect any area of the body, including the face, hands, and even hair. The exact cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. While vitiligo is not contagious or life-threatening, it can have psychological effects on those affected, leading to a desire for treatment options.