Symptoms. The primary symptom of vitiligo is patches of white skin due to the loss of pigment-producing cells. Vitiligo usually first appears between the ages of 10 and 30, often appearing first on areas exposed to the sun like the face, arms, or hands. These spots will first look paler than usual and gradually turn slightly pink as the immune system attacks the pigment-producing cells before the skin turns completely white. The rate and extent of the pigment loss is unpredictable. It can occur on any area of the body, even inside the mouth. It can even affect hair color which is also determined by melanin-producing cells. This can lead to premature whitening of the hair of the face and scalp.
