Understanding Vitiligo: The Skin Condition Affecting Kim Kardashian’s Son

Kim Kardashian revealed on a podcast that her son with ex-husband Kanye West has been diagnosed with a skin condition known as vitiligo.

Speaking on the She MD podcast, the 43-year-old U.S. businesswoman disclosed that her son “has vitiligo very mildly.” However, she did not specify whether she was referring to Psalm, who is five years old, or Saint, who is eight.

So, what exactly is vitiligo and how can one recognize it?

What is vitiligo?
“It is a long-term condition causing patches of skin to become paler in color,” explains Dr. Vinesh Mistry, an NHS GP and doctor at One Day Tests. “There are several types of vitiligo, but usually it is classified as generalised (affecting both sides of the body) or segmental (affecting only one part or side of the body).”

The condition can affect any area of skin, but it commonly appears on the face, neck, hands, and in skin creases, according to the NHS.

Vitiligo can affect people of any skin color, not just those with darker skin tones or mixed-race parents, adds Mistry. The condition is also not associated with skin cancer.

What causes it?
“It is caused by the lack of melanin pigment in the skin,” explains Dr. Paris Acharya, skincare expert and co-founder of The Ardour Clinic. “Our body’s melanin is produced by skin cells called melanocytes, which give our skin its color.”

“Those who have vitiligo don’t have enough melanocytes to produce the level of melanin needed, which causes the white patches to develop.”

“Triggers such as severe illness, stress, and chemical skin injuries may also contribute, along with a positive family history.”

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can vary from person to person.

“Vitiligo can affect all areas of the skin – most commonly these include: wrists, armpits, neck, face, mouth, groin, and hair roots too,” says Acharya. “It’s sometimes hard to label the exact symptoms of vitiligo, as the condition varies for every single person.”

Mistry adds, “Patches can be quite small initially, but generally tend to increase in size and change shape. Some people report mild itching at the site of new patches.”

Is it hereditary?
Vitiligo can be hereditary, but the pattern of inheritance is not straightforward.

“A child of a parent with vitiligo is not guaranteed to acquire the condition,” says Mistry. “Even in identical twins, there is no guarantee that both would be affected, which supports the theory that vitiligo has both genetic and environmental determinants.”

Do I need to see a doctor about this?
There are treatments available for patients with vitiligo; however, there is no cure.

“You don’t usually need to see a doctor regarding this condition; however, if you have new skin changes, then seeking the advice of a medical professional is worthwhile,” advises Mistry. “Even though vitiligo is not serious, it can often have quite a significant impact on the mental wellbeing of affected individuals, and this should be recognized and managed.”

“Some creams can also help with newly forming patches and even restore pigmentation, but their effectiveness varies between individuals. Light therapy is also an option – generally safer for children.”

Acharya also recommends investing in a high-factor SPF, as the pale white areas of the skin are vulnerable to the sun’s rays. “The pale white areas of skin caused by vitiligo are more vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage,” explains Acharya. “Therefore, it’s vital to take extra care when in the sun and to always use a broad spectrum, high-factor SPF.”