The main sign of vitiligo is the loss of pigment that produces light or white patches on the skin. Usually, the discoloration first appears on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, arms, face, and lips. The initial stage of vitiligo is usually characterized by a single plaque, often on the abdomen, and in some cases, it is accompanied by itching or excessive sweating. Often, vitiligo It also appears in the hair and bristles.
The appearance of vitiligo is often associated with the presence of other diseases, such as thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or Hashimoto's thyroiditis), as well as with the presence of rheumatoid arthritis or alopecia areata.

The change in appearance caused by vitiligo can affect a person's emotional and psychological well-being and can create difficulties in their professional and social life. People with vitiligo may experience emotional distress, especially if the vitiligo develops on visible parts of the body, such as the face, hands, feet, or genitals. Teenagers, who are particularly concerned about their appearance, are emotionally affected by extensive vitiligo. Some people with vitiligo feel embarrassed, ashamed, depressed, or worried about how others will react when they see them.