In these cases, depigmentation is permanent. This condition causes the loss of pigment in areas of skin without any evidence of disease. It is thought to be due to an autoimmune attack on melanocytes . In all races, vitiligo is the major cause of acquired, widespread pigment loss. In children, repigmentation is common, with melanocytes commonly spreading from hair follicles into surrounding areas.
Adults have significantly less repigmentation after their skin lightens.
However, some adults do respond to topical corticosteroid therapy. The incidence of vitiligo is higher in females than in males. Certain drugs and chemicals can cause hypopigmentation. For example, the skin-lightening agent called hydroquinone can cause strange and permanent loss of color in some individuals.