In a world that often equates beauty with flawlessness, vitiligo — a condition that causes loss of pigment in patches of skin — challenges that very definition.
But here’s the shift: what was once dismissed as a flaw is now being redefined as uniqueness. From global campaigns to local voices, people with vitiligo are reclaiming space — on screens, in skincare, and in self-love stories.
This World Vitiligo Day, let’s explore what it means to live — and thrive — with vitiligo in 2025.
What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition where the body attacks its own pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), leading to white patches on the skin. It can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity — and while it’s medically harmless, the social and emotional effects run deep.
According to the Indian Dermatology Society, approximately 1% of India’s population lives with vitiligo — yet stigma and misinformation are still widespread.
Beyond the Skin: The Emotional Side of Vitiligo
Living with vitiligo isn’t just about sunscreen and skincare — it’s about the daily emotional labour of being visibly “different” in a society obsessed with fairness, filters, and symmetry.
Social anxiety from being stared at or asked intrusive questions
Bullying, especially in schools and colleges
Body image issues amplified by media stereotypes
Marriage-related discrimination (especially for women) in some cultural circles
The Rise of Representation: From Shame to Style
Thankfully, the narrative is evolving.
Winnie Harlow, one of the most recognisable faces in fashion, brought vitiligo to global runways.
Brands like Fenty Beauty and Diesel have featured models with vitiligo without editing out their skin.
In India, creators like Sanjana Biswas and advocates like Ravinder Singh (The Vitiligo Society of India) are normalising conversations and pushing for visibility.
2025 Beauty Trend: Skin inclusivity is no longer a “campaign theme” — it’s becoming the default. And vitiligo warriors are leading the shift.
Lifestyle & Skincare: It’s About Care, Not Concealment
Vitiligo doesn’t require treatment unless the individual wants it. That said, lifestyle choices can support both skin health and self-confidence:
Sun protection is non-negotiable – use SPF 50+, wide-brimmed hats, and UPF clothing
Moisturise regularly – sensitive skin can get dry or irritated
Avoid harsh chemicals or over-exfoliation
If makeup helps you feel confident, go for it – but don’t feel pressured to “hide” your skin
Reminder: Skincare is personal — and healing isn’t always about “fixing.”
Self-Worth Over Skin Tone: A Reminder We All Need
World Vitiligo Day isn’t just for those with vitiligo — it’s a wake-up call for all of us to question the beauty standards we’ve internalised. What if we stopped chasing perfection and started celebrating individuality — freckles, scars, patches, all of it?
Let’s teach the next generation that beauty isn’t a mould — it’s a mirror that should reflect real people, in all their shades and stories.
To live with vitiligo is to live with strength, softness, and serious self-awareness. It’s an everyday lesson in confidence, courage, and rewriting the narrative.
This June 25, let’s not just post a hashtag. Let’s challenge colourism, amplify real beauty, and stand with those who carry their skin stories with pride.
